Heat wave: Cool hacks for surviving soaring temperatures this summer

Many parts of the country are in the grip of a heat wave. Extreme temperatures are dangerous and people need to take safety precautions. But for those places where it’s just very hot, we’ve rounded up some cool tips and tricks that will help you cope with summer discomfort:

Cool off that baking car

You know what it’s like getting into your car when it’s been standing in the sun for an hour or more. Try what’s known as the ‘Japanese door trick’. The video is in Japanese, but all you need to do is watch the technique from the 39th second.

Keep the heat out

While you may think it’s a good idea to let fresh air in during the day, you’ll have a cooler home if you keep doors and windows closed during the hottest part of the day. Open these at night and cool off your rooms.

Chill your sheets

Have a large enough fridge or deep freezer? Store your sheets in there for an hour or so and you’ll have some cool linen when bed time beckons.

Get a window cooler

Hang a wet towel from an open window. Also turn the fan on. You’ll have some cool air wafting through.

Take the ice bucket challenge

Place a large bucket packed with ice under the fan. It’ll bring down the temperature in your room for sure.

Carry a water spray

Carry a spray bottle filled with cold water which you can spray on your face from time to time, especially when you’re outdoors in the heat.

Stay calm

Start your day a little earlier, be organized, cut the stress. When you’re bothered you’re likely to be hot.