With a heat warning in effect across Ontario, staying cool should be a top priority this week as we dive into the season's first heat wave.
For those with homes not equipped with AC, Health Canada has provided some great tips to help you beat the heat and stay comfortable during any heat waves this summer. From hydration tips to finding cool havens, here are expert recommendations to help you stay cool without relying on AC.
Stay Hydrated and Refreshed:
One of the essential strategies for staying cool in the summer is to prioritize hydration. Health Canada advises drinking water before you feel thirsty and keeping a glass by the sink as a reminder. Additionally, boosting your fluid intake by consuming fruits and vegetables with high water content can help keep you refreshed throughout the day.
Shade and Curtains:
To combat the rising temperatures, it's important to control the amount of sunlight entering your home. Health Canada recommends keeping your curtains or blinds closed during the hottest part of the day to minimize the heat from penetrating your living space. By blocking the sun's rays, you can significantly reduce the indoor temperature.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
Using your oven during hot summer days can add to the heat inside your home. Health Canada suggests exploring alternative cooking methods to avoid unnecessary heat buildup. Get creative with delicious recipes from cookbooks or online sources that don't require oven use. From mouth-watering marinades for outdoor grilling to refreshing and satisfying salads, there are plenty of options to keep your meals enjoyable and cool.
Seek Cool Retreats:
When the heat becomes unbearable, finding respite in shaded areas, swimming pools, or air-conditioned spaces can provide much-needed relief. Health Canada suggests taking breaks from the heat by visiting tree-shaded spots, public swimming pools, libraries, cooling centres, friends' homes, or shopping malls equipped with air conditioning. These cool havens offer a temporary escape from the stifling heat.
Optimal Clothing Choices:
Selecting the right clothing can make a significant difference in your comfort level during hot days. Health Canada recommends wearing loose-fitting, breathable garments in light colours to help regulate your body temperature and promote airflow, keeping you cool even in sweltering conditions.
Harness the Cooler Night Air:
Take advantage of the cooler evening temperatures by keeping your windows open, if it's safe to do so. Health Canada suggests airing out your living space overnight, allowing the naturally cooler air to circulate and replace the warmer indoor atmosphere.
Quick Cooling Techniques:
When you're feeling overheated, a refreshing shower can provide instant relief. Health Canada advises using a shower to cool down and reduce your body temperature during hot spells.
Recognize and Respond to Heat-Related Symptoms:
While taking precautions to stay cool, it's vital to monitor your body for signs of heat illness. Symptoms such as feeling unwell, headache, fatigue, and excessive thirst should not be ignored. Health Canada emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated and seeking cooler environments if you or someone else experiences these symptoms.
Identifying a Heat Emergency:
In severe cases of heat-related illness, it's crucial to recognize the signs and take immediate action. Symptoms like fainting, disorientation, severe nausea, vomiting, extreme thirst, or difficulty speaking require urgent medical attention. Health Canada advises calling 911 immediately in such situations.
First Aid Measures:
While waiting for medical help, Health Canada recommends taking immediate steps to cool down the affected person. These include moving them to a cool location, removing excess clothing, applying cold water to their body, and using fans or water to provide relief. Prompt action can make a difference while waiting for professional assistance.
As the summer heat intensifies, it's essential to equip yourself with expert tips to stay cool and safe, especially if you lack air conditioning.
