In the Pacific Northwest, we are used to the gloomy weather, cold temperatures, and a constant cover of grey clouds. That's why when we enter these hotter months, Seattlites are more prone to heat exhaustion and heat stroke since Seattle is one of the least air-conditioned cities in the country.
Follow these tips to stay safe and cool and keep an eye on how you're feeling to avoid the symptoms of heat stroke:
1. Keep The Lights Off.
Turning off the lights is not only environmentally friendly, it has the benefit of saving you cash on your power bill and keeping you cool. According to the government energy website, lightbulbs only release about 10% of their energy as light, the rest of it is dispersed into your home as heat. It might not seem like much, but keeping the lights off if you can help it will make a difference,
2. Close the Windows and Blinds!
While I understand if you don't want to feel like a creepy Boo Radley shut-in, especially on such a beautiful day, shuttering your windows can help keep your house cooler. The less sunlight that can enter your house, the cooler it'll stay. You can open them all up again when the sun sets to let that cool night air in.
3. Make Smart Clothing Choices.
In the winter, you probably bundle up with some nice cozy sweaters and some blankets. Now, its time to do the exact opposite. Take off as many layers as you can even better if you can be in your home in the nude. And make sure that the clothes you are wearing are loose and comfortable so that they aren't holding any extra body heat against your skin.
4. Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol; Stick with Water.
This tip doesn't exactly keep you cool, but it's important since we'll be getting sweaty in this heat. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they both are dehydrating and you're already losing enough liquid as it is. Stick with some water or some juice. Even better, load up on that Gatorade or Powerade, to help you keep up your electrolytes since you'll be losing those as well.
5. Invest in a Good Fan.
Lots of Seattlites don't find it worth it to purchase an AC unit for the few months of the year where they would use it. While understandable, it is worthwhile to invest in a couple of good fans, to keep the air in your place circulated, so you can at least have a nice breeze. You can even place a bowl of ice water in front of the fan to help circulate some cooler air.
6. When in Doubt, take a Cold Shower.
I know what you're thinking. "That's never pleasant!" But you'll feel refreshed if you take a cold shower, and it'll knock your body temperature down. If you take one at night, it'll make it easier to sleep. Besides, cold showers are proven to have many other benefits.
7. Sunscreen.
You're probably tired of people harping on this one, but they harp because its true. Make sure you protect your skin. Most signs of aging are from sun damage, as well as the risk of skin cancer. Don't be sorry, be safe.
8. Ice Packs.
They aren't just for boo-boos anymore. Stick an ice pack on your feet or on the back of your neck, both spots are sensitive to temperature and you'll be feeling better in a jiffy.
9. Check on Your Pets.
Humans aren't the only ones who feel like they're melting in the heat. Remember to check on your pets! They can experience signs of heat exhaustion as well, especially because they have a limited skin area to sweat. Make sure they have extra water and are staying cool too.
10. Go Swimming!
There's a reason everyone flocks to the beach in good weather! Take a refreshing dip in the ocean or the pool, and you won't feel like you're melting like the Wicked Witch of the East — Or Pacific Northwest — anymore. Just remember to be safe when you swim and don't drink alcohol when you get into the water.
