BY: Ikanyeng Simololang
In
Botswana, during summer heat waves can strike areas of the country where cooler
climates are the norm. In these areas, many homes do not have air conditioning
and surviving in the extreme temperatures become a challenge for everyone. The
following steps can help you keep cool during a heat wave even if you have an
air conditioned home.
1.
Take advantage of cooling power of water -Fill buckets or basins and soak your
feet. Wet towels and bandannas can have a cooling effect when worn on the shoulders
or head. Take cool showers or baths, and consider using a spray bottle filled
with cold water for refreshing spritzes throughout the day.
2.
Head downstairs-Since hot air rises, the upper stories of a home will be warmer
than the ground floor. A basement can be a cool refuge from the midday heat.
3.
Eliminate extra sources of heat- Incandescent light bulbs can generate
unnecessary heat, as can computers or appliances left running. Eat fresh foods
that do not require you to use the oven or stove to prepare.
4.
Remember to maintain an adequate level of hydration - You'll need to consume
more water than you usually do when it's hot. If you're sweating profusely, you
will also need to replace electrolytes by eating a small amount of food with
your water or by drinking specially-formulated electrolyte replacement drinks.
Thirst is the first sign of dehydration; you should drink sufficient amounts of
fluids before you feel thirsty in order to prevent dehydration.
5.
Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine, as both of these substances can act as
diuretics and promote dehydration.
6.
For a homemade "air conditioning" system, sit in the path of a box
fan that is aimed at an open cooler, or pan filled with ice.
7.
Try to visit public buildings with air conditioning during the hottest hours of
the day if the heat becomes unbearable. Libraries, shopping malls, and movie
theaters can all be good places to cool down.
8.
Don't eat large, protein-rich meals that can increase metabolic heat and warm
the body.
9.
Be able to recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses and true heat
emergencies (heat cramps, heat rash, heat exhaustion, heat stroke). Call
emergency services (911) in the event of a heat emergency and try to cool the
victim until help arrives.
10.
Finally, remember that pets also suffer when the temperature rises. Cooling
animals (dogs, rabbits, cats) by giving them a "cool" bath or shower
will help keep their body temperature down. A cool towel on a tile floor to lie
on, a cool towel or washcloth lying over the skin next to a fan will also help
cool the animal. Make sure they have plenty of cool water to drink as well.
