How to Stay Cool During a "Hotlanta" Summer

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of South Atlanta wants to remind you to stay hydrated during warm weather and summer activities.

Atlanta has earned its nickname “Hotlanta” due to its busy nightlife, bustling economy and hot summer weather. Summer heat in Atlanta can be brutal if you are not prepared for it. That’s why SERVPRO of South Atlanta wants to equip you with the following tips for staying cool and safe over the coming summer months. Beat the “Hotlanta” heat with SERVPRO of South Atlanta.

Dangers of Summer Heat in Atlanta Georgia

Atlanta’s average summer temperature is in the neighborhood of 87°F to 88°F. This probably doesn’t seem like it would cause heat related health risks, but when the human body is unable to cool off, oftentimes heat exhaustion and even heat stroke can set in. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include but are not limited to: Muscle cramps and heavy sweating; Dark-colored urine (early indicator of dehydration); Pale or cold clammy skin; Weakness and/or confusion; Dizziness or headaches resulting in nausea or vomiting; elevated heartbeat. Symptoms of heat stroke are very serious and medical attention should be sought should you experience any combination of the following: Fever of 104°F or greater; red or flushed skin: lack of sweat or cessation of sweating; trouble breathing; fainting or seizures.

Stay Cool in Hot Weather by Beating the Heat

1. Drink Plenty of Cold Water - Staying hydrated is key to staying cool. Not only will the temperature of the cold water give you much needed relief from the heat but it also replenishes your body so you can create sweat to further cool yourself. 
2. Avoid Peak Sun Hours -  In Atlanta, peak sun hours are typically between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm (EST). If possible, plan your day to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during these hours, especially on days when it is inclemently hot outside.
3. Dress Weather Consciously - Wear loose fitting light colored clothing made of materials that allow adequate ventilation and breathability. Hats and sunglasses can offer some protection from the sun’s heat and UV rays.
4. Cool Down Your Pressure Points - Apply an ice pack, bottle of ice water, or a clean cool damp towel to your pressure points for relief from the heat and to cool your body’s temperature. The following body parts are ideal places to apply cooling actions: 
• Ankles
• Behind the knees
• Elbow bends
• Neck
• Temples
• Wrists
5. Eat or Drink Something Cold or Hot - Eating a popsicle or drinking a smoothie is a great way to cool down on a hot day. Popsicles have been known to be a great way of cooling down youngsters and toddlers that may not be as conscious of over-heating. As strange as it may sound, spicy food can also help cool you off as well. Spicy foods are notorious for causing people to sweat, which as we know is the way the human body cools itself. 

With these great tips for beating the Atlanta summer heat in mind, we here at SERVPRO of South Atlanta would like to wish everyone a fun and safe summer…and remember if water, fire or storm damage happens to your property, call the restoration professionals that are faster to any size disaster...SERVPRO of South Atlanta!