You feel sweat trickling down your back, and beads of sweat have formed on your forehead. When you turn on the TV to check the news, you learn that there has been an increase in the heat index. Read on to see what you can do to keep yourself comfortable.
Wear sun protection
It is time to put on those shades and bring out the sunscreen. Apply sunscreen that has both UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of 30 or higher. You can also put on a hat or use an umbrella.
Stay in a cool room
Before the warm weather rolls in, make sure that the air conditioner is in good working condition. If it is leaking or making too much noise, you need air conditioning repair.
Keep the room cool by setting the AC thermostat to 24-27°C. No air conditioner? No problem. Get a bowl of ice cubes and put them in front of a blowing electric fan. If you position it in the right spot, it will cool up the room in no time.
Water therapy
People sweat more when it is hot. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water. Taking frequent baths will also help cool your body down.
Mind what you wear
Do not wear dark-colored clothes because these absorb heat. It is best to wear white and other pale colors.
When it is hot outside, cotton is your friend. Loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabric such as cotton and linen help cool the body down. Clothes made of synthetic fiber such as nylon, polyester, and rayon will keep sweat in instead of absorbing it and letting it evaporate. You should only wear nylon when you go swimming. Nylon is water-resistant, which is why it is commonly used in swimwear.
Pay attention to the window
Stop the heat from getting in by shutting the blinds or keeping the curtains closed. You might also want to consider having the windows tinted. Tinted windows reflect sunlight and protect you from harmful ultraviolet rays. Another way to block the heat is to put potted plants near the window.
To fan or not to fan?
You will often see people fanning themselves due to the sweltering heat. But constantly moving your hand up and down will only increase your body temperature. Therefore, it is counterproductive. Get yourself a small portable electric fan as an alternative. This will keep you refreshed without tiring you out.
Avoid outdoor activities
Since it may be too hot to go outside, plan activities that can be done indoors. Bring out the board games. This is perfect if you miss playing Monopoly and UNO cards. If you are feeling brave, challenge your family or friends to a game of chess or scrabble. Try Jenga if you dare.
If you feel like going out, do it later in the day. There are lots of fun activities that can be done indoors. For instance, you can go to the mall, movie theater, museum, or book store.
It is important to stay cool during a heatwave due to the danger of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. These tips can help keep you safe and healthy in warm weather.