Beat the Heat

I’m going to be honest right now.  It has been hot outside.  Not as hot as it could be, that’s true, but anything over 95 degrees is too hot for me!  For those of us that have lived in Kansas for, well, more than one summer, we’re used to the heat.  Days that peak over 100 degrees is just another day in the life for us.  Not for the first time, I’m thankful that my job is mostly inside, and when I do walk around and visit businesses, I go inside their businesses as well, so my time in the heat is limited.   That’s not the case for everyone though.  The last couple of weeks, we have seen many a farmer out in the fields harvesting.  For most, harvest has concluded, but I still know some that are finishing up. 

Heat exhaustion or sickness can affect those in the workplace.  The good news is that there are ways to prevent the symptoms from creeping in and disrupting anything.  This is especially helpful for those that work outside, but it’s applicable for those that run errands outside, walk around, or are in the outdoors at all!  I snagged these tips from Assurance Edge Online; check out their website for more tips and information!

1. Wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing. This is easier to move around in and doesn't absorb as much heat. 
2. Be prepared for warmer conditions. Check the forecast, and know what to expect before you head out into the elements. 
3. Take multiple breaks inside or in the shade.  Break up your day.  Take a short break every hour or every two hours to recharge and cool off a little bit. 
4. Avoid overexposure or going out in the peak time of 10:00am-3:00pm.  If it's possible to avoid, don't go outside when the sun is beating down its worst.  Go out in the early morning or late afternoon/evening. 
5. Drink plenty of water! Water is so important for refueling and hydration.  Take a water bottle with you on your errands, and refill it often. 
6. Use and reapply sunscreen.  Even the most tan-skinned people can sunburn.  It doesn't take long either - less than an hour, and you'll be red! Apply sunscreen before you leave, and reapply it throughout the day if you remain outside. 
7. Stay away from caffeine. Caffeine, while it can give you more energy, can greatly dehydrate you. This is the opposite of what you want to happen, so make sure you stay away from caffeine. 

Not only will these seven tips help you beat the heat, but Abilene itself offers many ways to beat the heat, or at least pass the time in the heat.  Multiple stores sell ice cream and other cold sweet treats, there’s the swimming pool to cool off in, and our parks offer great shade and scenery.  If you’re hankering to burn a hole in your wallet, the shopping in Abilene provides a great escape from the heat.

While this summer is fairly cool compared to other places in the country (over 120 in Death Valley!), it still is pretty warm outside.  Use these seven tips to stay cool and “Beat the Heat” over the upcoming Dog Days of Summer, and it’ll be fall (the BEST season!) before you know it