How to Endure the Hot, Humid Days of a Long Island Summer

When the weather heats up outside on Long Island, keeping cool can be difficult, even with air conditioning. When hot temperatures hit, it’s important to take some steps to keep yourself cool so you reduce your risk of heat-related illness, such as heat stroke or dehydration. Here are a few tips on what you can do to stay cool on those sticky, sweltering days:

Mind your clothing. You’ll keep cooler in light colored, loose-fitting clothing in natural fabrics, such as cotton.

Avoid dehydration. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids, especially water, in hot weather. Sports drinks can help restore electrolytes. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, because they actually encourage dehydration.

Eat lighter. Hot foods can be harder to digest in the heat, whereas fresh fruits, salads and lighter dairy products like cottage cheese and yogurt are easier on the stomach, handy and you won’t have to run your stove!

Use fans. Even if you have an air conditioning system or ductless cooling, fans help to circulate the cooled air throughout your home.

Enjoy a bath. One of the best ways to cool down in the heat is to take a cool bath or shower if you’re feeling overheated.

Of course, be mindful of anyone in your home who may have more difficulty dealing with high temperatures than usual. The elderly, infants and those with illnesses are often easily overcome by high temperatures, so be mindful of their condition and make sure they’re well-hydrated. Keep your pets’ dishes full of water, too, and make sure they have a cool retreat as well! If you need help staying cool during the summer, contact T.F. O’Brien. We can help you decide if air conditioning or ductless cooling is right for your home. Just give us a call at 516.488.1800.