With temperatures getting hotter and hotter in Montreal, it will finally feel like summer! With climate change, we can expect more and more of these uncomfortably hot days… So here are some tips to keep it cool this summer without necessarily turning on that noisy & expensive AC unit!
SHADE
Outside the reach of direct sunlight, temperatures are usually a few degrees cooler… Just enough to help your system cope with the ambient heat. The good news is, you can make your own shade: just remember to bring a hat when going outside! On the porch or in the back yard, an umbrella is a lifesaver. In the car, you can protect your kids from the bright sun by installing window shades.
WATER
Adult bodies are made up of about 60% water! For kids, that number reaches 65%. When this percentage falls even slightly, we become dehydrated. This can lead to headaches, heat exhaustion and worse. That’s why it’s vitally important to drink lots of water during heat episodes, especially if you’re spending lots of time outdoors. Plus, drinking water will help keep your body temperature down!
SUNSCREEN
Admittedly, sunscreen doesn’t do much to keep you warm… But it’s still really important during heat waves! Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers in Canada, and most skin damage is caused by sun exposure. Wearing sunscreen daily helps reduce damage to your skin, and in turn, your risk for skin cancer.
POOL & WATER GAMES
Montreal has tons of public pools and water games in public parks! They’re open all summer, and the city often extends their opening hours during heat waves. Just don’t forget to reapply sunscreen after getting wet!
BETTER BEDSHEETS
During the hot summer nights we’re about to experience, you may feel stifled in your slumber. Too hot under the sheets, too cold on top because of your sweat cooling in the night air… There are a few things you can do! Switch to thinner sheets, stick your feet out the bottom, or switch to cotton sheets which are more breathable.
FAN FACTS
You need to know two essential things about fans. FIRST: ceiling fans can spin both ways; in summer, they should spin so that they pull hot air up and away from you; in winter, adjust them so they push hot air down. SECOND: fans are best used to create air circulation THROUGH the home, not just to blow air around. Try pointing your fan towards an open window, and notice a current of fresh, cool air will always be flowing.
PJS or NO PJS?
Some claim that sleeping naked is best because you’ll stay cooler… Others claim PJs help wick away sweat from the body, keeping you dry. It’s a matter of personal preference, but if you decide to wear PJs, make sure you get loose, light ones!
EAT COOL
Eating room-temperature or lukewarm food is a good idea in hot weather. Not only does it avoid you having to turn on your oven, but it’s healthy! Salad, anyone?
