From the Southwest to the Northeast, a record heat wave is sweeping the nation. Still, it’s summertime, and people may still want to take advantage of the sunshine and be outdoors — and there are certain things they can do in order to not overheat.
Eric Green (@eric_the_green), who has a master’s in medical anthropology and is currently getting a doctorate in the same field, has created a series of videos that give out tips on how to stay cool.
Green has several posts, with some explaining why people should use fairly common items like hats and umbrellas to keep the sun’s rays away.
In the video where he recommended hats, Green stated that putting any type of material between your head and the sun will help prevent heat absorption from the top part of the body. Furthermore, there are several other things that may not require as much effort as carrying an umbrella.
One tip Green also suggested was consistently rinsing off your forearms with water.
“The idea behind this is that you’re applying water to parts of the body where blood vessels are close to the surface,” he said. “The coolness of that water is going to cool down your blood… As it evaporates, it’s going to take heat away from your body.”
Green said this can be done on the head, neck, ankles and feet. However, he understands that pouring water on those places isn’t always the most optimal option.
Several of Green’s viewers were already practicing his tip and found much success.
“We always wet our entire heads and necks – the fresh water fountains in Rome in 40°C heat are a godsend,” commented @mp.gw. For context, 40 degrees Celsius is roughly equal to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Because of the current heat wave, many places in the Midwest and East Coast are experiencing temperatures in the mid-90s up to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Being in that level of heat for extended periods of time can cause heat exhaustion.
There are several actions people can take to recover from heat exhaustion. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are a few things to do in order to combat it:
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing
- Protect against sunburn
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Be careful with certain medicines
- Never leave anyone in a parked car
- Take it easy during the hottest parts of the day
- Get acclimated
- Be cautious if you’re at increased risk
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Doctoral student shares tips on how to be outside but still stay cool
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