It is likely that 2016 will be the hottest year ever recorded, despite the demise of one of the strongest El Niños on record. This year, so far every month has been a record warm. February and March actually set consecutive records for the most anomalously warm month, according to statistics from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. If NASA also rates May as a record warm then it will be the 13th month in a row to reach its record highs.
Beat the heat with some of these tips. With 2016 being the hottest year recorded, sometimes people make mistakes and some end up with jail time. Read these 10 tips to help keep you cool and calm this summer.
- Stick sheets in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes before bed. We recommend placing them in a plastic bag first. This may not keep you cool all night, but it will provide a brief relief from heat and humidity.
- Buy a hot water bottle. In the winter you fill it with boiling water for warm toes without cranking the thermostat. During the hot summer, stick it in the freezer or fridge to create a bed-friendly ice pack.
- Make a DIY air conditioner. Position a shallow pan or bowl full of ice in front of a fan. The breeze will pick up cold water from the ice’s surface as it melts, creating a cooling mist and cooling you off.
- If you ever need to cool down fast, apply ice packs or cold compresses to pulse points. Located at the wrists, neck, elbows, groin, ankles, and behind the knees.
- Feeling motivated or just really, really hot? Set up a hammock or set up a simple cot. Both types of beds are suspended on all sides, which increases airflow.
- Stay hydrated. Tossing, turning and sweating at night can result in dehydration. Drinking a glass of water before bed will help reduce that risk and allow you a better night of sleep.
- Cool down a whole room just by hanging a wet sheet or towel in front of an open window. The breeze blowing in will quickly bring down the room’s temperature.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably of a light color. Cotton clothing will keep you cooler than most synthetics.
- Try storing lotions or cosmetic toners in the refrigerator to use on hot overtired feet.
- Fill a spray bottle with water then keep it in the refrigerator. After being outdoors, use it for a quick refreshing spray to your face to cool down.