When temperatures in Florida rise into the 80s and 90s and you combine that with humidity, it is enough to melt the most eager vacationer. The resulting “feels like” temperature puts older adults at higher risk because as you age your internal A.C doesn’t work so well.
However, it’s important to note that heat stress can occur at any age and if you are going to venture out you should be prepared at any age. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stress and how to seek treatment.
Here are some common sense and fun ways to beat the steamy Florida heat:
Dress Appropriately
Dress in light-weight, light-colored, clothing, there’s a lot to choose from these days. Find clothing with a built in SPF as well as venting as these options keep you from having to slather on that Cocoanut-smelling sunscreen.
Preparing For An Outdoor Event
If you are Like Mark Hallberg (Oak Grove MN), there’s not a whole lot that you hate more than baking in the sun. We asked mark to give us a few tips on how to stay cool.
“Well first-off you need to look cool to stay cool, I like wearing fashionable & functional clothing made for those STEAMERS”! Mark prefers wearing Kuhl branded clothing pronounced (Cool).
Wear a Hat
Blocking the Florida’s harmful rays will reduce your chances of sunburn and help you to stay cooler & more comfortable..
Tip: Wearing a hat (Like Marks’ Green Carhart Hat) or carrying an umbrella does not mean you are fully protected but it’s a start!
Stay Out of the Midday Heat
The sun is the hottest between noon and 4:00 p.m. This is a good time to hang in the shade, drink some lemonade with your grandson or take life advice from your son-in-law (we recommend the latter):-)
Limit Activity
Midday is not the time to go for a jog, hanging out in the shade or taking a dip in the ocean is a better choice.
Use “keeping Cool Gadgets”
Whether it is a spray bottle to mist your face, a small personal fan, an umbrella hat, or a thermal-cool neck wrap – these can all help keep the temps at bay.
Seek Air Conditioning
When all else fails, go indoors and enjoy some good old air conditioning!
