When it's extremely hot outside and you do not have air conditioning, the best approach is to keep your windows and doors closed during the hottest parts of the day, especially if the temperature outside is higher than the temperature inside your home. Closing the windows and doors helps to prevent the hot air from entering your living space, keeping the indoor environment cooler.
Here are some tips to stay cool without air conditioning:
Close curtains and blinds: Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day, especially on windows that receive direct sunlight. This will help block out the heat from the sun and keep your home cooler.
Use fans strategically: Place fans near windows to draw in cooler air during the evening and early morning. In hot weather, you can also use a box fan or a ceiling fan to create a cross breeze, which can help circulate air and make it feel cooler.
Create cross ventilation: If it's cooler outside during the evening or early morning, open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross ventilation effect, allowing cooler air to flow through.
Limit heat-producing activities: Avoid using heat-producing appliances like stoves and ovens during the hottest parts of the day, as they can add to the indoor heat.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help regulate your body temperature.
Take cool showers: Taking a cool shower or using a damp cloth to wipe your face and body can provide temporary relief from the heat.
Use cool, damp cloths: Apply cool, damp cloths to your forehead, neck, and wrists to help cool down.
However, during the evening or early morning when the outside temperature drops, and if it's safe to do so, you can open your windows and doors to let cooler air in. The key is to take advantage of cooler outdoor temperatures and prevent hot air from entering your home during the hottest parts of the day.
Remember that extreme heat can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable individuals like the elderly, young children, or those with certain medical conditions. If you or others in your household are struggling to cope with the heat, it's essential to seek cooler shelter, such as a public cooling center, if available, or visit air-conditioned public places like libraries or shopping malls to stay safe and comfortable.