Staying Cool in the Great Outdoors

July 22 2015

James Patten

 

With options such as our air conditioning and warm air heating systems available, it’s easier than ever to regulate your temperature when you’re in work or at home – however once you head outside, it’s easy to feel as though you’re on your own, and in the heat of this (admittedly lacklustre) British summer, you need some tips to stay cool outside as well as in!

Find some shade… or make your own!

When the sun is at its hottest, you’re not doing yourself any favours by lounging directly underneath its harsh rays – you’ll only find yourself with sun fatigue and crispy red skin! It’s always better to find a spot of shade to sit back and relax under; if there isn’t the canopy of a handy oak tree anywhere nearby then you can take your own shade with you in the form of a large umbrella or parasol.

Although a big umbrella is perfect if you’re planning a spot of sun-bathing, getting active in the garden might require something a little more hands-free. In that case, go for a nice wide-brimmed hat that stops the heat beating down on your neck and face.

Stay hydrated (and eat lots of ice-cream…)

A nice cold glass of water is simply essential in the summer, especially since it will help you to keep your body heat down. If you’re looking for something a little more exciting to get the same effect then it’s definitely a good excuse for some ice cream.

If you’re watching your diet then don’t despair, as there are also plenty of healthier frozen goodies that can help you cool off. We love frozen bananas – perfect dipped in chocolate or peanut butter – and frozen berries in the summer!

Never underestimate the humble H2O

We’ve already mentioned how important it is to drink a glass (or five) of water, however there’s a lot more that you can do with nature’s wonderful elixir. Water fights are absolutely perfect for helping children to cool off in the sun – and we’d wager there are a fair few adults who wouldn’t mind getting involved too.

If you’re on the beach then stay near the waves, as the fresh sea air coming in from the ocean will stop you from facing a wall of heat. Even if you don’t want to head out into the water itself, set up your deckchair a little closer to the coast and you’ll soon notice the difference.

Take a break in the middle of the day

When we do get a rare day of glorious heat here in the UK, it’s definitely tempting to spend a solid day out in the garden or at the park. However, it can be a lot more sensible to head out in the morning and then again in the late afternoon and early evening.

This is because the sun is at its hottest during the middle of the day, and even those of us who simply adore the heat are at risk from heat stroke and other health conditions if we don’t take regular breaks. Consider spending some time inside during the middle of the day – maybe even for a brief siesta after lunch!

Never forget your sunscreen

Okay, so this one isn’t really going to help with the heat, but it’s just too important to forget; the lure of a golden tan simply isn’t as important as avoiding that horrible bright red burn.

When you head back inside at the end of the day in the great British sun then you’ll want heating and cooling solutions to maintain the great temperature you’ve got going on – and that’s where Heritage Heating and Cooling can help you out. Contact us online or at 01509 814 123 to find out more about the options that we have available.

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