Tag Archives: heat wave

Fur Coats and No Air Conditioning

We haven’t really needed air conditioning in the new apartment — things have been pretty mild this summer in the Portland, Oregon area. I’m not trying to gloat; I know things have been hot and humid around the rest of the country. All in all, we haven’t needed to worry about air conditioning. There have been a few days here and there that have passed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Today feels like it’s going to be a hot one. So how do we deal with the heat without having an air conditioner? Plenty of cool, fresh water. The drinking bowl is … Continue reading →

Hot Weather Tips

Whew! Yesterday it was 107 degrees and that was the actual temperature, not the heat index! I didn’t even bother to check the heat index, because I really didn’t want to know. I’m not checking either today, but it’s hot. We have occasional August heat waves here, but wow. I really wasn’t ready for all this. I’ve had to get a little more creative to deal with the heat, so I thought I’d share some tips and ideas, that you may find helpful if you are experiencing high temperatures. I’ve had to adjust my routine and I’m doing more things … Continue reading →

Home Week in Review: August 6 – 12

If you missed anything this week, don’t feel bad. I missed a couple days myself, and had to backtrack to catch up. My area has been experiencing one of the worst heat waves in years and we had to conserve energy during the day to avoid power outages. There were days I had nothing on but air conditioners and fans (and sometimes the lights would still blink, making my heart race). With the heat index topping 115, I did not want my family to be without air conditioning. At that extreme, it goes beyond simple comfort and is more about … Continue reading →

How Hot is it where You Live?

During July, we had surprisingly nice weather here. It was warm and sometimes rather hot during the day, but nothing compared to the July heat we are used to. The nights were unusually cool and comfortable, and believe it or not, there were a few evenings that were downright chilly. Well, August seems to be returning things to normal, and it is as hot as… well, a typical August day. Yesterday, temperatures were in the high nineties, and the heat index was around 104. Today, temperatures are expected to hover around 100 degrees, but coupled with the high humidity, the … Continue reading →

Healthy Exercise In The Summer Heat

The hottest days of summer may require you to modify your usual workouts just a bit. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and safe while you exercise this summer. Staying Cool Take a cold shower before you exercise. A German study found that cooling your body down before your workout can help lower your core temperature, your skin temperature, and your heart rate. Adjust your jogging or walking route to stay in the shade. Check the Weather Channel or other forecasts to find the best time of the day to exercise. Pick dirt or gravel paths for … Continue reading →

Air Conditioner Only $165 Shipped – Ends Tomorrow

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Yesterday, it was 129 degrees in Las Vegas. Yeah, I know that the official temperature was “only” 113, but that was at the airport. My brother lives in Vegas, and all the hotels on the strip had a consistent 129. Meanwhile, I’m sitting here in the Northwest complaining because it hit 85 yesterday. The 60s are the best, the 70s are tolerable. When I was in college, I remember having a professor who kept the room cold because he said the brain functioned most optimally at 63 degrees. I can’t find any scientific evidence, but I know my own brain … Continue reading →

Staying Comfortable during a Heat Wave

While in some areas of the country the heat is beginning to die down, parts of the nation are still experiencing a heat wave. My local forecast predicts 106 today, and many other areas are still enduring sweltering heat. We discussed the main points of staying safe and helping others during a heat wave, but there are also a few tips to help you remain more comfortable. In extreme heat, or a combination of high temperatures and high humidity, your air conditioning might not be able to keep up. This is true for many homeowners, even those with central air … Continue reading →

Keep Your Family Safe During a Heat Wave

As the country suffers a heat wave it is important to be prepared to deal with the rising temperatures in order to protect yourself and your family. There are a few simple things you can do to avoid suffering from the heat. 1) Avoid going out during the hottest part of the day. If you do go out be sure to drink plenty of water and do not participate in strenuous activities. Rest often and go inside as soon as possible. You can plan your outdoor activities for the early morning or the late evening. 2) Make sure that you … Continue reading →

Help Keep Others Safe in Hot Weather

It looks like Chicago is experiencing another heat wave. I know it’s very hot in other places, but being from Chicago, I remember the nightmare of the last heat wave. However, I have deep concerns for people everywhere who may not be able to properly care for themselves. Please, take the time to check on the elderly, the sick, and the less fortunate in their homes. It is so sad to see people die when it is completely preventable. I saw an older woman on the news last night, sitting in her hot apartment with the windows closed, no fans … Continue reading →

Protect Yourself and Others in Hot Weather

If you don’t have air conditioning, or know someone that doesn’t, please follow the guidelines below to protect against heat when temperatures rise. The heat can be very dangerous. 1. Anyone that does not have air conditioning should get out of the house and into a cooled area for at least a couple of hours each day. Ask a friend to take you to the mall or go to a courthouse or another public building. If you don’t have anyone to call or anywhere nearby to go, call a local church. Many have hospitality areas that they will open to … Continue reading →