We’re having a long hot summer here in Ontario! Here are some top tips for keeping cool and beating the heat:
Keeping Cool Use cool water to: Sponge or bathe Soak hands, forearms, and/or feet Spray skin while fanning Wet a cloth to put on the neck and/or armpits
Try to avoid the heat by staying out of the sun when it’s the hottest part of the day – this is usually between 11 am and 3 pm.
Wear loose, light-coloured clothing made from breathable fabric (e.g., cotton), and a hat and sunglasses if you go outdoors. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Drink liquid (especially water) regularly, even when not thirsty.
Eat fruits and vegetables which are high in water content.
Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it in the refrigerator for a quick refreshing spray on your face after being outdoors.
Keep plastic bottles of water in the freezer; grab one when you’re ready to go outside. As the ice melts, you’ll have a supply of cold water with you.
Spend a few hours in a cool place. It could be a tree-shaded area, swimming facility, or air-conditioned spot like a shopping mall, grocery store, or public library.
Eat Smaller Meals. The more you eat, the more heat your body creates. Eat small meals throughout the day to limit the metabolic process that creates heat within. Instead of hot foods, try lighter summer fare including frequent small meals or snacks containing cold fruit or low-fat dairy products. As an added benefit, you won’t have to cook next to a hot stove.
Keeping the Home Cool and Food Safe
Close windows, blinds, and curtains during the hottest part of the day.
Open windows, blinds, and curtains when the temperature is cooler in the evening.
Use electric fans, and air conditioning, to cool or circulate air.
If the home gets too hot, go to a public place to cool down (e.g., pool, shaded green space, library, shopping centre).
Do not use the oven. Instead, use the stovetop or microwave to heat food or have meals that do not require heating.
Ensure that food is properly stored as soon as eating has finished and discard spoiled food. This is particularly important following a power outage.
Check the storage instructions on your medication to see if you need to move them to a cooler place.