Beat the Heat - 11 Tips to Stay Safe (and Sane!) in a Summer Heatwave

When temperatures soar, it’s more than just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. As someone who works in emergency preparedness, I see firsthand how fast heat can go from “ugh, it’s hot” to “we need help.”

So, whether you're wrangling kids, walking your dog, or trying to sleep in a sauna of a bedroom, here are 11 quick tips to help you stay cool, safe, and maybe even have a little fun with it.

🧊 1. Chill Your Pulse Points

Run cold water over your wrists, splash your face, or apply a cool cloth to the back of your neck and knees. These areas help regulate body temperature quickly.

🚿 2. Cold Shower, Then Fan

Take a quick cold or lukewarm shower, and then sit in front of a fan. As the water evaporates from your skin, it cools you down naturally.

❄️ 3. Freeze a Damp Washcloth or Bandana

Keep a few in your freezer. Drape one around your neck or forehead for instant relief, especially handy for bedtime.

🌬️ 4. Create a DIY AC

Place a shallow bowl of ice in front of a fan to create a cool breeze that actually drops the temperature in the room. Old school and effective.

🧴 5. Use Aloe Vera or Mint Lotion

Both feel naturally cool on your skin. Pro tip: store them in the fridge for a refreshing blast!

🐾 6. Protect Your Pets

If you’re hot, they’re hotter. Walk dogs early or late, avoid hot pavement, and keep a cool mat or frozen toy available.

🪟 7. Reverse the Curtains

Hang light-colored sheets or reflectors in your windows to reflect heat back outside. Close blinds during the day to block heat.

🍉 8. Eat Light and Watery

Skip the hot meals and reach for hydrating foods, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and yogurt. Your body will thank you.

🌜 9. Sleep Low (Literally)

Heat rises. Move your mattress to the floor or sleep downstairs if you can. Even a few degrees cooler makes a difference.

🤪 10. Freeze Your Pillowcase (Yes, Really)

Pop your pillowcase or even a small towel into the freezer for 10–15 minutes before bed. It’s silly - but it works!

🏖️ 11. Make a Backyard Cool Zone

Set up a kiddie pool for your feet, run through a sprinkler, or mist yourself with a spray bottle. Make it fun - you’re not just surviving summer, you’re making memories.

☀️ Final Thoughts

Heatwaves are no joke. Check in on elderly neighbours, keep pets safe, and don’t forget to hydrate! Your body needs water even if you’re just lounging.

Stay Safe and Stay Cool, Jackie

Meet Jackie Kloosterboer

With over 30 years of frontline experience in emergency preparedness and disaster response, I’ve helped thousands of families, communities, and organizations prepare for the unexpected—and recover when it strikes. From wildfires and floods to large-scale evacuations, I know firsthand what works when every second counts.

I’ve led emergency response efforts with the City of Vancouver, partnered with First Nations communities across B.C., and taught future responders through the Justice Institute of British Columbia. I’m also the founder of Mom’s Ultimate Disaster Plan —an online course designed to help busy families feel confident, informed, and ready to take action when it matters most.

My mission is simple: to make sure your family is ready before the disaster strikes!