Low-Tech Ways to Beat the Heat
Is the heat this week getting to you? It sure is getting to Frankie . . .
He’s a good sport, but weathering this heat in a historic house with no AC is tough!
Here’s what Frankie and his human assistants at the Harrison House do on those really hot days:
set up fans. All kinds! Big ones in the windows, to push air out or draw it in; small ones on desks or for quick pick-me-ups. Just getting the air moving around you is a huge help.
drink water, even before you are thirsty. Frankie has two water fountains that run all the time, and we humans do our best to carry around water glasses or bottles.
don’t push yourself. Take a cue from the way Frankie is lounging above! A hot afternoon is not the time to do any physical labor. Let it wait until evening or morning when temperatures are lower!
limit sun exposure. Not just for you—for your windows, too! Put up shades to prevent too much sun getting in and warming up your house, where you can.
play with ice packs. Wrap up an ice pack from the freezer in a towel, and it can be your portable cooling station if you’re really getting warm! Direct from the freezer, an ice pack may be too shocking to use, but insulate it with some towels for more gentle cooling.
And of course, always know the warning signs of heat-related illnesses. In humans, that might be dizziness, nausea, or dry skin (if you stop sweating, that is a bad sign). In pets, similar signs like panting, vomiting, or a rapid heart rate could mean they’re getting too hot. Pets can benefit from fans and cool surfaces, too! Frankie loves hanging out on the concrete mudroom floor during the summer.
Stay safe out there!