Staying Cool in the UK Heatwave

The UK is currently sweltering under a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures soaring past 30 degrees Celsius. This has resulted in a sticky situation for many, with fans cranked up to the max and outfits becoming as skimpy as possible. With the forecast predicting temperatures could reach up to 40 degrees Celsius, there’s a growing sense of dread about how to keep cool and protect loved ones from the scorching heat.

Conventional Heatwave Hacks

We’re all familiar with applying sunscreen and drinking plenty of water, as even a short stroll can leave you drenched in sweat. However, these are just the basics, and there are many more tricks up our sleeves to keep us cool and comfortable. Some of the conventional heatwave hacks include:

• Slathering on sunscreen and staying hydrated
• Wearing light, loose clothing
• Staying indoors during the hottest part of the day
• Using fans or air conditioning to keep your home cool

Italian Heatwave Hack

However, one individual took to Reddit’s ‘Ask A Brit’ forum in search of some genius heatwave hacks. Their post went on: “With summer coming, can people tell me their heatwave hacks/tips that actually help keep me and my house cool? Before anyone says ‘just get on with it’ or ‘it doesn’t get that hot,’ I don’t handle the sun/heat well, and nothing you can say will change that”. In response, fellow Redditors shared some unconventional heatwave hacks, including:

1. Keeping curtains and blinds shut to minimize heat entry
2. Using a jug of ice in front of a fan as a DIY air conditioning unit
3. Placing a bowl of cold water in front of a fan for a cooling effect
4. Running cold water over your wrists for a cooling sensation
5. Using a washing-up bowl of cold water under your desk for your feet

Italian Trick for Dealing with Heat

One Redditor shared an Italian trick for dealing with the intense warmth and humidity. According to them, the trick is to “keep your curtains and blinds shut”. This is because by keeping your curtains drawn, particularly during the sun’s peak hours, you minimize the amount of heat entering your home. This aids in maintaining a cooler indoor temperature, making it easier for fans or air conditioning units to keep your living space comfortable. Moreover, curtains can serve as a barrier, slowing the transfer of heat from outside.

DIY Air Conditioning Unit

Another individual suggested placing a “jug of ice in front of a fan” as a DIY air conditioning unit. This hack is surprisingly effective, as the cold air produced by the fan can be quite refreshing. However, be mindful not to overfill the bowl or jug to avoid any spillages.

Cooling Tricks from Around the World

A Redditor shared an Italian-inspired heatwave hack that got people talking. According to them, older people in Italy would sit in a bucket of ice-cold water with their feet in it, chatting like normal. One person tried it and found it to be incredibly effective. Another person shared a similar experience, stating that they tried this trick while visiting family in Sicily when they were pregnant with their first child.

More Cooling Tricks

Some other cooling tricks that people have found effective include:

1. A “cool rinse” following a shower feels “legendary”
2. Running cold water over your wrists for a cooling sensation
3. Using a washing-up bowl of cold water under your desk for your feet

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many unconventional heatwave hacks that can help us beat the heat without having to bail on social plans. By incorporating some of these tips into our daily routine, we can stay cool, comfortable, and protected from the scorching heat. Whether you’re in the UK or somewhere else in the world, there’s always a way to stay cool and enjoy the summer months.