5 Ways to Keep Cool this Summer

The coming summer is expected to be very warm across much of central and western Canada, as the cool weather will be confined mostly to the Atlantic coast. The dry conditions in the valleys of south-central British Columbia will likely continue. The waters of the eastern Pacific are predicted to be unusually warm this summer. All this means you will need to be prepared.

So, here are 5 ways to keep cool this summer:

1. Wear lighter clothes:

Buy loose fitting clothes made of lighter and thinner materials. Make sure they are of a lighter shade because they absorb less heat from the sunlight. Replace your fancy blanket with a lighter one at night.

2. Drink lots of cold water:

The importance of drinking water cannot be exaggerated. In addition to keeping you alive and healthy, it helps you keep cool by keeping your skin hydrated. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of cold water a day. If you are not a fan of plain water, then have cold drinks, fruit juice, ice cream and other icy treats. When going out walking or jogging, carry a bottle of cold water. Keep a bottle or two of water or a few cans of cold drinks in your car.

3. Avoid direct sunlight:

If you have sensitive skin, then avoiding direct sunlight is the surest way to prevent sunburn, rashes, dehydration and other complications arising from the harsh glare of sunlight. It's generally cooler inside the house than outside. Keep the windows open to allow the inflow of fresh air, but use light and thin curtains to block direct sunlight. If you don't have an air condition.

4. Insulate your house:

Is your house well insulated? People generally fortify the insulation of their house to keep out the cold in  the winter. Not only does insulation keep the cold out in winter, it also keeps the heat out in summer. Insulation prevents the conduction of heat from the outdoor to the indoor; thus keeping your house cool at all times.

5. Reduce the use of appliances:

Appliances like the stove, oven and vacuum cleaner can raise the temperature of your home when they are running. Reduce their use as much as you can. Avoid using power-hugging appliances during the hottest parts of the day. When appliances are not in use, make sure to unplug them because they may be emitting heat. Even a desktop or laptop computer can heat up your home when they are on. Use cooling fans to keep the temperature down.

Picture by Katherine Johnson

By Shondell Varcianna

June 26, 2015