POULSBO — As temperatures rise to low triple-digits this week, Kitsap News Group took to the streets to ask passersby how they plan to stay cool during the heat wave.
“Stay in the shade.” — John Salmans, Poulsbo.
“We’re actually driving out to Idaho for a river rafting trip. But we also have a pool in the backyard.” — Mark Grindrod and his daughter, Jaime Shearer, said.
“Go north, but we haven’t decided where yet.” — Mike, on his motor boat “The Cutwater,” at Poulsbo Marina.
“Get a portable air conditioner and sit in my room. It was almost like getting ready for a snow storm, but not.”— Lisa Cook, a visitor to Poulsbo.
“Hang out in my basement or a movie theater.” — Julie Vaughn, Edmonds. (Vaughn’s mother, Bonnie McKinley, who recently relocated to Vancouver from Southern California, said she’s used to hot weather. “She’s getting out her inner lizard,” Vaughn said.)
“I’m going to Lake Crescent, unless I’m on Lake Washington.” — Peter-George Wiess, Seattle.
Need a few other ways to stay cool this week? Try these:
- Block the sun with blinds or curtains.
- When the air outside is dry and cooler than the air inside, hang a damp sheet in front of an open window so incoming breezes are cooled by the evaporating water.
- Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan for a makeshift air conditioner.
- Keep a spray bottle or lotion in the refrigerator. Spritz yourself with chilled water for thermal regulation.
- Air dry dishes and clothes.
- Eat something spicy. The chemical compound in chili peppers, capsaicin, helps us to perspire, causing brief relief.
- Turn off lights and stoves.
- Snack often and lightly on cool refreshing foods, such as antipasti and cold soups.
- Think “cool” by reading books such as “A Winter’s Tale,” or “Call of the Wild.” Thinking about the cold can actually make you feel the sensation of being cold.
— Sophie Bonomi is a reporter for Kitsap News Group. Contact her at sbonomi@soundpublishing.com.
While out on the water, UV rays can be reflected and cause sunburns unknowingly. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen and wear sunglasses, hats and life jackets to stay protected. (Sophie Bonomi/Kitsap News Group)
