Our first taste of heat will be today with temps hovering around 90. Are you ready for the heat?

Here are some tips to stay cool if you don’t have  air conditioning

Cool Your Living Space

1. Block Out the Sun:

   • Close curtains, blinds, or shades during the hottest part of the day.

   • Use blackout curtains or thermal drapes.

2. Open Windows Strategically:

   • Open windows at night or early morning to let in cooler air.

   • Create a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your home.

3. Use Fans Wisely:

   • Place a bowl of ice or frozen water bottles in front of a fan to blow cool air.

   • Set box fans in windows blowing outward to push hot air out.

   • Use ceiling fans counterclockwise to push air down and create a wind-chill effect.

4. Cool the Air with Water:

   • Hang a damp sheet in front of an open window or fan.

   • Lightly spray curtains with water to create evaporative cooling as air passes through.

Cool Your Body

1. Stay Hydrated:

   • Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

   • Avoid caffeine and alcohol — they can dehydrate you.

2. Wear the Right Clothes:

   • Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing made of cotton or linen.

3. Cool Down with Water:

   • Take cool showers or baths.

   • Apply a cold washcloth to pulse points (wrists, neck, elbows, knees, ankles).

   • Soak your feet in cold water — it’s surprisingly effective.

4. Use a Cooling Towel or Ice Packs:

   • Freeze a damp towel or use gel packs wrapped in cloth.

   • Apply to back of neck or chest.

Sleep Cooler

1. Use Lightweight Bedding:

   • Sleep with a cotton sheet or no covers.

   • Use a buckwheat pillow — it doesn’t retain heat like foam.

2. Freeze Your Bedding:

   • Put pillowcases or sheets in a plastic bag and freeze them before bed.

3. Sleep Low:

   • Hot air rises — try sleeping on the floor or in the lowest part of your home.

🔌 Avoid Adding Heat

1. Unplug Electronics when not in use — they emit heat.

2. Don’t use the oven or stove — eat cold meals or use a microwave.

3. Switch to LED bulbs — they give off less heat than incandescent ones.