Stay Cool throughout NYC’s Hottest Month of the Year

By Yehudit Garmaise

July usually brings New York City’s hottest temperatures, but by following a few tips, everyone can stay cool as cucumbers while having fun in the sun.

New Yorkers should remember that while higher temperatures provide opportunities for both kids and adults to get out of small apartments, intensely hot days also can lead to heatstroke, dehydration, and sunburns that require medical help.

Temperatures higher than 103’, muscle cramps, dizziness, lightheadedness, vision changes, abdominal pain, and nausea are signs of heat stroke that require emergency care. 

To avoid experiencing even lesser symptoms, such as blinding headaches, feeling faint, and fatigue, summer lovers only need to take a few precautions before they let the sun shine in.

Increase your level of fitness: People who maintain a high level of fitness are better equipped to handle the heat, Laura Purdy, MD, MBA told livescience.com. While everyone should take part in whichever aerobic activities are fun for them, many physicians say that even daily brisk 20-minute walks for breaks or errands can keep you in shape.

Drink plenty of water: “To stay hydrated, you should drink before you start to feel thirsty,” said the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which recommended that anyone working or playing outside drink one cup of water or other beverages every: 15 to 20 minutes.

Apply ice packs: to back of your neck, under your arms, on your wrists, and behind your knees to cool your body temperature as rapidly as possible,” suggested Dr Purdy.

Make your own popsicles: Dollar Tree and Target sell inexpensive popsicle trays with fun shapes like shells, turtles, and rockets that children can use to freeze punch, juice, and chocolate milk to cooling and hydrating treats.

Wear lightweight clothing that breathes: Try to avoid anything polyester, which traps heat, and instead choose lightweight cotton fabrics. For women, the modal shells from the Shell Station are super useful during the summer and all year long.

Sunglasses and a hat: don’t just say, “summer vacation,” but they can ward off migraines and keep you cool when the sun is intensely bright.

Breathe out:  Sit in a comfortable position, relax your hands, and breathe in through your mouth and out through your nose five to eight times to feel a cooling sensation.

Keep your curtains closed: to prevent the sun from penetrating and overheating your house. 

Sleep in a cool home: Leaving windows open or the air conditioner or fans at night allows for the heat to dissipate from your body, so you will be more prepared for the hot days to come, Dr. Purdy said.