8 Ways to Stay Cool In a Heat Wave

Light-colored, natural fabrics help reflect, rather than absorb, light and promote more breathability, rather than letting any sweat get trapped against your skin. Opt for looser-fit clothing, and stick to fabrics like linen on the hottest days.

Whether you’re out for a walk or stuck inside with limited access to AC, a neck fan can offer some extra cooling power directly where you need it. You can find personal neck fans at many major retailers, both in stores and online.

Drink plenty of water and eat hydrating foods, like watermelon and cucumber, to minimize risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Smoothies and cold soups are also nourishing, hydrating options.

Wait to enjoy that iced coffee or Aperol spritz until the temps have dropped back down. It may be tempting to go for a “refreshing” caffeinated or alcoholic drink, but these drinks may quicken dehydration. Instead, swap for mocktails and herbal teas.

If you’re outside or have no AC, head to a local library, cafe or other air conditioned space to keep cool. Many cities offer cooling centers you can use free of charge. When outside, stick to shaded areas as much as possible.

This can be difficult if you work outside, but otherwise, limit your time outdoors, especially doing strenuous activities like running or weeding your garden. Finish outdoor activities early in the morning to minimize heat exposure.

Skip steaming hot showers during a heatwave. Instead, stick to cooler water temperatures to avoid feeling hotter and heating up your home.

If you don’t have AC, it’s important to try to keep your home as cool as possible during the day. Shut windows, close blinds and pull shades to keep sunlight from heating up the inside of your home more than it inevitably will. Then, at night, you can open windows and set up fans to help cool things down.