BANGOR (NEWS CENTER Maine) – With temperatures soaring into the 90s through the Fourth of July, we set out to see the quirky things folks are doing to stay cool in the heat.
Eat Spicy Food
Studies say eating spicy foods can help cool down the body because it tells your body to sweat. If it is humid, medical experts say that probably is not a good idea, though.
"Sweating cools our body down," Katie Saunders, nurse practitioner at Easter Maine Medical Center, said. "If it's too humid that's going to backfire because the sweating is not going to cool us down any more."
Watermelon with Salt
Most people love to eat watermelon in the summer. It’s even hydrating! But adding salt to it, while tasty,, might not be a good idea.
"If you're suffering from heat stress and you choose to use watermelon as your treatment, I don't think I would recommend that," Saunders said.
Ice Your Wrists and Pressure Points
If you really need to cool down quickly, some people have recommended using ice, or even cold water, on your wrists and other pressure points.
"A cool shower, certainly going swimming," Saunders said. "If an ice cube is all you've got it should cool you down a little bit."
Put Your Sheets in the Freezer
This one is a little weird. Just fold up your bed sheets and place them in the freezer. They’ll get nice and cold and perfect to curl up in. We can’t say it will last long though.
The American Red Cross recommends these tips as temperatures soar:
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
How do you stay cool?! Share your ideas with us using #wakeMEup.