Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight clothing if you plan to be outdoors during extreme heat this summer. Natural fibers such as cotton, linen and silk breathe to allow perspiration to evaporate, and certain synthetics such as Coolmax are designed to wick away sweat. “Loose, billowy clothes allow air movement next to the skin and help with evaporation,” Penn State professor Larry Kenney told Real Simple. You can find many lightweight and lightly used garments at the #thrift stores supplied by generous #donations to ClothingDonations.org — or #donate the ones you no longer need. Resale proceeds go directly to programs that benefit the nation’s #veterans. #BeatTheHeat #OutdoorLiving
Tag: summer
Avoid Exertion During Extreme Heat Events
With #climate change making #weather extremes more unpredictable, even simple activities such as getting the mail or walking the dog can pose health risks when temperatures spike. Ingest fluids continuously during extreme heat events even if you aren’t engaging in a strenuous activity — it’s better to prevent dehydration than react to it or suffer heatstroke. “Extreme heat is one of the terrifying aspects of climate change, and it’s important that people understand how to protect themselves and others,” Columbia University professor Cecilia Sorensen told Scientific American last year. #BeatTheHeat #OutdoorLiving
Avoid the Hottest Hours During Extreme Heat
During the dog days of #summer, it’s best to schedule any #outdoor time to avoid the #hottest parts of the day. Enjoy #outdoor activities in the morning and evening, seek out #shade, and avoid engaging in strenuous activities when the temperatures get uncomfortable, says Ledge Loungers. You may have to change up your workout routine to stay cool and get some exercise, or spend more time at the #beach or #swimming pool. Drink plenty of water and other refreshments, but avoid overindulging in sugary, caffeinated or alcoholic beverages in extreme heat. #BeatTheHeat #OutdoorLiving
Seek out Shade to Beat the Heat
Before the invention of air conditioning, people had to keep c#ool using the natural methods at their disposal. Staying out of the direct sunlight is the first rule, and #shade trees are the most cost-effective way to cool your outdoor spaces, Houzz says. Trees take time to grow, of course, but you can buy trees large enough to offer shade and plant them in the fall. For a quicker fix, try adding a pergola, awnings, ceiling fans or a misting system to your outdoor space. “The cool breeze provided by a misting fan can make outdoor living very comfortable on even the hottest days.” #BeatTheHeat #OutdoorLiving
Use That Summer Produce Before It Spoils
Whether your #summer #garden has reached peak yields or you went overboard at the farmers market, you may find yourself with a lot of fresh #produce this season. Don’t let it go to #waste. There are easy ways to use up your favorite #vegetables, fruits and herbs before they turn to mush. Turn excess zucchini into lasagna or zucchini bread. Add vegetables to stews. Freeze extra berries and fruits for smoothies or cobblers. Make extra greens and herbs into a savory pesto to toss with pasta or use in marinades. And toss anything that goes bad into a #compost bin. “You’ll be saving your budget and the earth all at once,” says Better Homes & Gardens. #SummerGarden