The Hot Days of Summer

There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colors are brighter, the air softer, and the morning more fragrant than ever again. ~Elizabeth Lawrence

Even in the Midwest the summer days can be uncomfortable, especially if the humidity is up in the 70's, and the temperatures in the 90's. I tend to avoiding using the oven when at all possible, and IF I have to use it I bake in the early morning. We have ceiling fans which really help a lot around the house, and last year we put one in the kitchen. I've noticed a big difference since using it to cool things off. I know the tips I have below mention that fans only circulate rather than cool, which is true, but that circulation makes things seem cooler.

By the way, yesterday I was apparently thinking of winter when I chose the picture of the woman dressed for travel. It was nice of you all to ignore that and not email me asking why she was dressed for the cold:)

Below the heat safety tips I have two reader tips that were sent in. Thanks ladies!


Red Cross Heat Safety Tips:
Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.

Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.

Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.

Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.

Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool, they simply circulate the air.

Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.

READER'S TIPS
I grew up in New Jersey, very similar to Florida in the summer time, and of course now I am where most don't even want to think about in the summer. One thing which will work in both conditions is a type of cloth hat like a swamp hat which you can soak, wring and wear - it works best in lesser humidity, but still works in the high humidity places sort of okay.

~Catherine, The Herb Lady
http://www.herbs2u.net/

Last time I went to Disneyland, I have a small microwave that goes with me. Just set it on the table and plug it in. Kids are there for the park not the restaurants.
~Kristi M.

I also have an article on OFL with summer hair care tips.

~Brenda