When temperatures approach 120F/50C in Dubai this summer, knowing how to keep cool is helpful and lifesaving. Extreme temperatures can result in illnesses ranging from major sun burns and heat exhaustion, to life threatening heat stroke. Knowing how to keep cool will ensure you stay healthy this summer.
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Combat dehydration by drinking plenty of water along with sports drinks or other sources of electrolytes.
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Keep plastic bottles of water in the freezer; grab one when you’re ready to go outside. As the ice melts, you’ll have a supply of cold water with you.
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Dress Accordingly. Wear lightweight, light colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the suns’ energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrellas
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Alter your pattern of outdoor exercise to take advantage of cooler times (early morning or late evening). If you can’t change the time of your workout, scale it down by doing fewer minutes, walking instead or running, or decreasing your level of exertion.
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Wear loose-fitting clothing, preferably of a light color.
- Cotton clothing will keep you cooler than many synthetics.
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Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it in the refrigerator for a quick refreshing spray to your face after being outdoors.
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Fans can help circulate air and make you feel cooler even in an air-conditioned house.
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Try storing lotions or cosmetic toners in the refrigerator to use on hot, overtired feet.
- Take frequent baths or showers with cool water.
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When exercising, if you’re wearing a cap or hat, remove it and pour a bit of ice cold water into the hat, then quickly invert it and place on your head.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these will promote dehydration.
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Instead of hot foods, try lighter summer fare including frequent small meals or snacks containing cold fruit or low fat dairy products. As an added benefit, you won’t have to cook next to a hot stove.
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Arrange to spend at least parts of the day in a shopping mall, public library, catch a movie at some Dubai theaters, or other public space that is cool.
- If you haven’t tried Ski Dubai, now is the time. Its great fun and the near freezing temperatures offer a great way cool off.
Use common sense. If the heat is intolerable, stay indoors when you can and avoid activities in direct sunlight or on hot asphalt surfaces. Pay special attention to the elderly, infants, pets, and anyone with a chronic illness, as they may dehydrate easily and be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Don’t forget that pets also need protection from dehydration and heat-related illnesses too.
If you found this article helpful, please pass it on to your friends and help them keep cool in Dubai. |