Tips For Keeping Cool Without Air Conditioning - Second Heatwave In Two Weeks...

It is hot outside! We hit 94 degrees last week and 93 degrees today. This is out second heatwave in as many weeks. We are really high in altitude and should not be experiencing these temperatures. The sun is really strong at this elevation and exacerbates the temperature. 

I opened the windows when the clouds moved in and cooled things off a bit. It was 79 degrees inside and 83 degrees outside. 

 

I decided to process some carrots that need to be used up outside instead of inside to keep the house cool for as long as possible. Well, let me tell you that the flies and mosquitos are vicious. I would have hated to have experienced the plague of flies in Egypt or any of the plagues for that matter.

You can find my recipe for Mexican Carrots Here: Mexican Carrots Recipe

I failed to take pictures while processing the jars of carrots in the hot water bath on the grill. I think I was too focused on fighting off the torturous biting blood suckers. 

I use the electric pressure cooker to avoid heating up the house more with the stove. I would have and have used it outside, but the flies were unbearable.

I processed these pint jars using a hot water bath method outside on the side burner of the grill.  

Tips For Keeping Cool

1.  Open the windows in the evening once the outside air is close to the same temperature as inside.   It takes time for the air to start circulating throughout the house. If you wait, the house will heat   up even more. Use safety measures like window security adjusters that only allow windows to   open so wide to avoid unwanted visitors like bears or the two-legged kind while the windows   are open.
2.  Close the windows and curtains when you wake up in the morning to keep the cool air in and   the hot air out.
3.  Keep the air circulating inside the house with a fan. A stuffy house seems hotter. The breeze   from the fan will also help to keep your body cool.
4.  Drink plenty of water. Avoid dehydrating liquids like alcohol. 
5.  If you need to cook, cook outside or early in the morning or late in the evening. Avoid using the   oven if possible. Small countertop ovens or air fryers can be used outside in fair weather. Do not   try this in the rain or inclement weather. Follow manufacturer instructions to avoid electric   shock.
6.  Avoid hot heavy meals. Try cold salads, sandwiches or cereals. Fruit and vegetable platters with   bread makes a good meal, plus it's easy.
7.  Sleep with a fan on and use a light blanket if necessary and cool cotton sheets.
8.  Sleep with a cool water bottle or an ice pack. 
9.  A damp washcloth or a misting bottle with a fan blowing will cool overheated bodies fast.
10.  Take off some clothes. Wear light loose fitting cotton clothing.
11.  Take a cool shower before bedtime.
12.  Don't burn candles. They put off more heat than you realize.
13.  Avoid overexerting yourself. 

 

Stay healthy and safe,

Mrs. Smith