This week the temperatures are shooting up and it will be tropical warm! The chance that it will be 30 degrees for several days is quite high. Staying cool when temperatures hit record highs isn't just about comfort. Dangerously high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses ranging from heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The following tips can help you stay cool.
* Change your pattern of outdoor activities to take advantage of cooler times (early morning or late evening). If you can't change the time of your workout, train a little shorter, or lower your effort level.
* Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably of a light color.
* Cotton clothes keep you cooler than many synthetics.
* Fill a bottle with water and keep it in the fridge for a refreshing spray on your face after being outdoors.
* Fans can help circulate air and make you feel cooler.
* Put lotions in the fridge to use for hot, tired feet.
* Keep plastic water bottles in the freezer; grab one when you're ready to go out. When the ice melts, you have nice cold water with you.
* Take a bath or shower regularly with cold or lukewarm water.
* Make sure you don't become dehydrated by drinking plenty of water.
* Some people swear by small, portable, battery-operated fans.
* Avoid caffeine and alcohol as they promote dehydration.
* Try lighter summer dishes instead of hot dishes, often including small meals or snacks with cold fruit or low-fat dairy products.
* Finally, use common sense. If the heat is unbearable, stay indoors if you can and avoid activities in direct sunlight or on hot asphalt surfaces. Pay special attention to the elderly, babies and anyone with a chronic illness, as they dehydrate easily and are more prone to heat-related illness. Remember that pets also need protection against dehydration and heat-related illness.
