The Everest Blog

Every summer we see new record-breaking temperatures. In this kind of heat, staying cool isn’t just about comfort – it’s about safety too. According to the CDC, more than 700 people die from extreme heat-related illnesses in the United States. 

There are many details to consider, from humidity to health conditions, so make sure you take proper precautions from the heat and how you stay cool in summer. While you can’t control the weather, there are several other factors you can control. Here are four steps you can take to ensure you stay cool this summer: 

Stay hydrated.

Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to take a drink! Whether it’s filtered water, a sports drink with electrolytes, or anything else to keep you hydrated, keeping it iced will help keep your body temperature down as well.

Drinking extra water is important – and it’s even easier when it’s tasty filtered water. Either you can drink filtered water, or you can be the filter – so being familiar with your local ice machine business will help you be extra prepared when it’s time to buy ice and water to keep your beverages (and body) chilled.

Be mindful.

Being mindful is important – both inside and outside. If you’re indoors without air conditioning (AC), make sure to keep the air circulating with fans. A box fan in a window can help expel hot air from the house. Blocking incoming sunlight from the windows and closing the doors of rooms you’re not using can also help keep the temperature down inside. 

If you’re outside, try to stay in the shade and take frequent breaks. Wear light, loose clothing, and make sure to apply sunscreen. If you can help it, also try to avoid being outside at midday – that’s when the sun is at peak heat! Don’t forget to have a cooler on hand with ice and cold beverages ready!

Learn the hacks.

There are several tips and tricks that can make a big difference – especially for those who don’t have AC. Try out one – or several – of these handy hacks to stay cool in summer.

• Chill your body’s “pulse points” to cool down faster. The most popular of these points are your neck and wrists, but there are several other spots including the insides of your elbows and knees, the tops of your feet, your inner thighs, in front of your ear near your temple, and more. You can do this with chilled washcloths or bandanas, or you could use ice wrapped in a towel. 
• Put a bowl of ice in front of a fan for an affordable and easy AC alternative.
• Create a refreshing mist using a spray bottle – especially one filled with cool water – and a fan. 
• Fill your bathtub – or even a kiddie pool – with ice for rapid cool down. Just make sure not to stay in too long – too much direct ice exposure could cause damage, so be safe above all!

Have a plan.

Remember that extreme heat isn’t just about comfort, but should be treated like any other potential weather emergency. If the power goes out, or if you can’t keep the temperature low enough at home, you should have a plan prepared. That can include having coolers on standby in case you need ice, or making sure you have plenty of filtered water.

Try to keep your home as cool as possible with the tips above, but also be familiar with public facilities nearby that might offer AC, have additional or emergency resources, or simply have darker cooler areas.

Following these steps will ensure you stay cool in summer. The most important part of all: listen to your body. Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat-related illnesses – including heat exhaustion – and take action as necessary. 

Ice vending is a great resource to help you beat the heat. Everest Ice and water is guaranteed to keep you cool AND hydrated. In fact, Everest ice is slower to melt than store-bought ice from a merchandiser, and Everest water is filtered with the same filtration system designed for McDonald’s to provide billions of customers with the best-tasting water, soda, and coffee. So enjoy your summer the right way – refreshed, safe, and cool.