As we finally begin getting more normal summer-like weather, the arrival of heat and humidity to our area comes as a welcome change to some and somewhat of a burdensome condition to others. This difference in attitudes usually depends heavily on how people normally spend their days, indoors or outdoors.
People who work inside where A/C provides an artificially cooler and less humid environment probably are less prone to complaining, at least until they step outside and it hits them like a blast furnace. But those who work or are otherwise outside the majority of the day aren’t particularly enamored when they’re potentially faced with dehydration, heat stroke, sunburn, or at least plain old stinging sweat getting in their eyes.
For many outdoor endeavors the emphasis of “those hazy, lazy crazy days of summer” that Nat King Cole sang of should be on “lazy” because too much physical exertion when it’s hot and humid can be downright dangerous, or at least unpleasant. Lounging around the pool or deck, submerging in a swimming pool, or sprawling in a hammock in the shade may be perfect, but not everyone can spend those hottest summer days doing these. And some who truly enjoy outdoor activity (the key being “activity”) aren’t particularly motivated to do them either.
Over the years I’ve worked, canoed, played golf and fished when the temperatures were over the century mark and the humidity was like a sauna. Yes, it was indeed somewhat uncomfortable, but not to a point where, if I was recreating, I didn’t enjoy the outing or ever felt in danger for my health. Taking just a few simple precautions basically negated the worst aspects of the conditions and allowed me to enjoy the activity.
Overcoming the two biggest threats from hot weather of dehydration and direct sun lays the foundation for spending a day outside when the summer weather could fry an egg on the sidewalk. You’ll sweat probably all day long as your body tries to keep itself cooler, so taking on plenty of fluid—preferably water—both before heading out and throughout the day is critical. The direct overhead sun will be your next potential enemy, so forget going bare headed or bare backed. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, quick drying shirt. Apply sunscreen that won’t wash off to all exposed skin areas. If I’m near water, I usually dunk my hat in the liquid whenever possible and then put the soggy chapeau back on my head, letting the cool water drizzle down over my head and upper body. It’s both refreshing and cooling. Wear good quality sunglasses to protect your eyes.
