SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Summer is in full swing, and so are extremely high temperatures.
Beach outings, barbecues, and a host of other outdoor pursuits are hallmarks of summer, but failing to take care when exposed to high heat and humidity can lead to serious health risks.
Officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration suggest wearing lightweight, loose fitting and light-colored clothing.
Wearing colors like white, tan, khaki and pastel colors can help reflect the sun’s rays.
Specialists at REI recommend that in humid conditions, it’s crucial to wear loose-fitting attire. Tight clothing tends to soak up sweat and trap it against your skin.
On a non-humid, but hot day, you can wear “wicking” clothing items to manage moisture.
“During a hot, humid day, the surrounding air is almost or completely saturated with moisture, leaving sweat with nowhere to evaporate except onto your skin or into your clothes,” noted REI expert Joe Pasteris.
Clothes made of lighter fabrics also typically dries quicker, which can help mitigate sweat sitting on your skin.
Clothing with built in vents or mesh panels can also help with keeping cool.
“These features, plus a looser fit, help to increase airflow on hot, humid days, and even the smallest amount of airflow can greatly improve drying time and aid in evaporation,” Pasteris said.
If you need to wear a hat, look for hats with vents that are made of lightweight and quick drying material.
Bandanas and neck gaiters dunked in water can also be used to help keep your neck cool, but they should be removed in humid conditions when they don’t feel cool to the touch.
