Get awnings for your windows. The Department of Energy estimates that they can reduce the rise in temperature from the sunshine by as much as 77 percent.
Put in some mini-blinds or white window shades. These can cut solar heat gain in half.
When the temperature goes over 78, keep the house sealed shut. You may think it makes sense to open windows, but you’re just letting the heat and humidity in. Shut the doors and use fans instead.
Water is your best friend. Don’t drink coffee or soda drinks—to avoid dangerous dehydration and stay cool, stick to plain old H20, or make yourself a pitcher of refreshing iced tea.
Stick with cool, light meals. Nothing feels worse on a hot day than a too-full stomach, and you definitely don’t want to spend time next to a hot stove. If you’re hungry, try a salad or wrap, or a cold soup like gazpacho.
Splash cold water on your wrists and forehead. By cooling down your pulse points, the rest of your body will drop in temperature, too.
Wear light clothing. Stick with light fabrics like cotton and linen. Light colors will also absorb less of the heat, keeping your body cooler.
Camp out. If you have a private yard, why not spend the night outdoors in a tent? The air’s bound to feel cooler, and if you’ve got kids, they’ll love the change of scene.
Safety tip: Don’t leave people or animals in parked cars, even for a minute. It might seem easier to leave your dog or your child in the car for just a moment while you run into a store, but on hot summer days, such decisions could prove deadly.
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