Beat the heat when the air-conditioner goes out with these old-school tricks for staying cool.
The last thing you want on a sweltering summer day is for your AC to go out.
Without air-conditioning, hot, humid temperatures outside can quickly make your home feel unbearably warm.
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Don’t worry about what to do when your AC is broken.
Choose Breathable Fabrics
Trying to sleep in heat can be unbearable.
Take a Cool Shower
Need tocool downASAP?
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Run a cold shower or bath.
Stay in the Shade
Shaded areas are much cooler than those in direct sunlight.
If you’re outside, look for an overhang, patio umbrella, orlarge, leafy treeto sit under.
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When indoors, keep excess heat out by placing light-blocking treatments over windows and doors.
Head to the Basement
Because heat rises, the coolest part of your house is typically at the bottom.
If you have a finished basement, hang out there as much as possible.
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Or settle for the ground floor in lieu of the upper level.
Turn On the Fan
If you have fans around the house, use them.
Switch on all box, desk, andoverhead fans in your hometo keep air moving.
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For an added cool factor, place a bowl of ice cubes in front of anoscillating fan.
The air will pick up the chill around the cubes and push it out into the room.
Tryno-cook recipesthat feature fresh fruit and vegetables, chilled salads, or a cheese plate.
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And if you absolutely must use heat, use a toaster oven or outdoor grill.
Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration helps your body regulate its temperature, so drink up!
attempt to drink at least 64 ounces of water and other fluids over the course of the day.
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Just be careful what you put in your cup; alcohol and sugary drinks can actually dehydrate you.
Trywater infused with fresh fruitsfor arefreshing way to stay hydrated.
at least thirty minutes before heading outside (to give it time to absorb).
