This summer, the heat has been intense across the United States. I feel like I’m pretty used to the heat since I live in the deep South, but I know that there are people out there experiencing a heat wave like never before. Heat is something that needs to be taken seriously as it can act quickly and swiftly to bring on illness and even death.
There are tons of ways to beat the heat this summer, all while still having fun. Some might be pretty common sense, but it’s easy to overlook these things when you aren’t really thinking about it. Here’s 5 tips to help you beat the heat this summer:
1) Cover windows with curtains or drapes.
I know we all love bright sunlight lighting up a room, but in the middle of the hot day it’s best to keep windows covered with darker/thick coverings to keep the light and the heat out. Not only will this keep the house from getting overheated, it will also keep you from having to use the air conditioner as much. So you save money also. Win win.
2) Turn the oven off and use a crockpot instead.
The oven is what we all use most frequently to cook, but try to limit it as much as possible in the summer. Once it heats up, it spreads that heat through the whole house and it can take awhile for things to cool back down. Use a crockpot instead to continue serving delicious meals without heating up the house. An outside grill would work, too, since it wouldn’t heat up the house!
3) Seek out the shade.
While you may want to get that sun-kissed glow this summer, try to spend time in the shade when you are outdoors, especially if it’s long term! Bring umbrellas, hats or sun shades wherever you’re going and enjoy the shade instead. Look for places with lots of trees or buildings to create natural shade. (Still wear sunscreen, though, since you can get sun even in the shade!) If kids want to play outside, do it early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun isn’t in full force.
4) Make water your best friend.
Whether it’s swimming, running through the sprinklers, or just plain old-fashioned drinking, make sure to include water in your summer activities. It’s important to stay hydrated and ensure that your body doesn’t overheat in the sun.
5) Skip the dryer cycles.
If possible, based on where you live, try to avoid any type of dryer cycle. This includes your dishwasher and your dryer. Instead, let the dishes air dry and hang the clothes up to dry (inside or outside). It will keep the house from getting any of that extra heat and help on your electricity bill as well.
I hope that some of these will help y’all stay safe and cool this summer… and save a little extra money, too. Most importantly: never stay outside if you are feeling overheated and don’t ever leave kids/pets outside unobserved in the heat, including the car.
Do y’all have any “beat the heat” tips to share with us?
