Beat the Summer Heat Without Air Conditioning

Ali Zenaidi, 2, cools off in the Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain inside Grand Park during a major heat wave in Southern California in downtown Los Angeles, California in this file photo. Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

LOS ANGELES—Southern California is in the midst of a strong heat wave due to a ridge of high pressure over the region, according to the National Weather Service, causing the agency to issue an excessive heat warning.

Temperatures between 100 and 110 degrees are expected in the valley and lower mountain areas of Los Angeles and Ventura counties through Saturday.

The risk of dangerous heat-related illness is increased, especially for sensitive individuals, those participating in outdoor activities or without air conditioning.

So what should residents do to cool off?

Tips and Tricks

Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, such as confusion, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and headache. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing.

A worker with the Moran Roofing Company takes a drink during a break while working on a roofing job in high heat in Walnut Creek, Calif. on July 25, 2006. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Drink plenty of water and other non-caffeinated drinks to stay hydrated. For a treat, enjoy frozen desserts, or make homemade popsicles, slushes, or ice cream.

Avoid turning on the oven, and grill dinner outside instead.

Consider spending time at the library, the mall, or a local cooling center. Remember, don’t leave children or animals in enclosed vehicles for any amount of time.

During the day, keep curtains and blinds shut to block the sun from heating up the air in your house. Open up windows and set up fans to push out the hot air in your home and pull in the cool air overnight.

For a cool breeze, place a bowl filled with ice or ice packs in front of a fan that’s blowing towards you.

A fan in a residential bedroom in Arcadia, Calif. on July 22. Sarah Le/Epoch Times

Can’t sleep? Use sheets that are made with natural fabrics, like cotton or silk. Take a cool shower or rinse your feet in cold water before going to sleep.

Still not working? Put your sheets or pillow in a plastic bag and place them in the refrigerator or freezer for a few minutes to cool off. You can also try placing a cool, wet cloth on your forehead, chest, or feet.

If you are a naturally very hot person or the heat gets really bad, you can try freezing a small or large bottle full of water, wrap it in a pillowcase, and snuggle up.

You can also try meditating before bed to slow your heart rate and control your body temperature, leading to a naturally more comfortable and relaxed feeling.