7 Ways to Keep Cool and Safe During a South Carolina Summer

South Carolina summers can be brutal, especially in July and August when the days are at their hottest. It’s important to keep cool and safe during these summer months, so that you don’t get heat exhaustion or a heat-related illness from being in high temperatures for too long. Here are seven ways to keep cool and stay safe during South Carolina summers.

Drink Plenty of Water

Drink more water than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Have plenty of water on hand while outside, in the car, or at work. Avoid caffeine and alcohol because they dehydrate the body even more. Be aware of how your body feels – muscle cramping may be an early sign of heat-related illness. If you are feeling too hot, weak, tired, or having cramps, don't wait to get out of the heat and get help.

Wear Light Clothing

When temperatures outside are soaring, loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing is best for keeping cool and comfortable in the heat. Don't forget to wear sunscreen and a hat outdoors, too! 

Stay In The AC As Much As You Can

The number one way to protect yourself is to stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If your home is not air-conditioned, reduce your risk of heat-related illness by spending time in public facilities or air-conditioned vehicles. Limit outdoor activity if you can, especially in the middle of the day when temperatures are hottest. And of course, never, never leave kids or pets inside of vehicles unattended.

Wear Sunscreen

It's important to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, and wearing sunscreen is one of the best ways to do that. Look for a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher, and that is broad-spectrum, meaning it will block both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously all over your body, and don't forget to reapply every two hours (or more often if you're swimming or sweating).

Schedule Outdoor Activities Early in the Day

Schedule your outdoor activities early in the day when it's cooler outside. This is particularly important for sports and strenuous activities to avoid the peak hours of heat and humidity. Start activities slowly, and monitor your teammates and friends for signs of overheating.

Reduce weight in your car

Removing heavy and bulky items from your vehicle will reduce the weight and drag on your car, saving gas consumption. Clean out your trunk to remove unneeded items, and remove cargo containers or bike racks until you need them. 

Check on Friends & Neighbors

No one should have to suffer through the summer heat alone. Elderly or very young children are most susceptible to heat-related illness. Check on your neighbors and people you know, especially if they don't have air conditioning to make sure they're staying cool and drinking enough water. And don't forget to ask someone to do the same for you!

Limit Stove and Oven Cooking

Try to limit your use of the stove and oven when cooking. Not only will it make you hotter, but it will also make your house hotter. Instead, opt for no-cook meals or meals that can be cooked in the microwave. If you must use the stove or oven, try to do so early in the morning or late at night when it’s cooler outside.

High temperatures kill hundreds of people every year. Staying hydrated and in air-conditioned buildings is your best defense against extreme heat. Getting too hot can make you very sick, and the high humidity makes it even harder for your body to cool off. If you are feeling ill, nauseous, exhausted, dizzy, having muscle cramps, or just feeling too hot... get out of the heat immediately, and don't wait to get help. Learn the symptoms of heat-related illness and what to do for yourself, friends, family, and loved ones: