Virtually every year, heat waves strike various parts of the country; and there aren't many regions that can escape being visited by one, from time to time.
However, it doesn't take days of outrageously high temperatures to make people uncomfortable and lethargic; many are ready to call off work and do nothing but lie in their hammocks when the weather is "just plain hot.
" Indeed, like winter, summer has its unpleasant characteristics; it's just that, for some reason, people seem to be more willing to overlook them.
Perhaps, it's because they don't want to shatter its reputation as the "lazy, hazy, crazy" time when the "livin' is easy.
" Still, it's every bit as capable of raising energy bills and causing health problems - or worse - as its cold counterpart.
After all, getting overheated can be just as dangerous as freezing.
Although scorching weather can affect everyone, the elderly, the very young, and those who work outdoors, are the most susceptible to heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
So, when the temperature is life-threateningly hot, if you can help it, don't exert yourself in any outdoor activity for a long period.
If your job requires it, go at a slower pace, drink plenty of water, and take frequent breaks.
Otherwise, your best bet is to stay indoors, in the air-conditioning, whenever you can.
Don't feel guilty about letting a little yard work go for a few days, either.
Even if there's been a dearth of rain, which often happens during spells of extremely high temperatures, you don't absolutely have to water your grass.
It may bake for a few days, and even turn brown, but it will recover rapidly with the next rainfall.
Moreover, if you look around, you're sure to notice that some neighbors' lawns are looking a little less than lush as well.
If you have flowers and vegetables that need attention, put the sprinkler on for them.
It's also best to wear clothing that is light-colored, and made from light fabrics.
Take cool baths or showers every so often, or go for a swim, if you have easy access to a pool that's in a shady area.
When you're going outdoors, put some ice packs and wet cloths into a cooler, and keep it handy.
Remember to check on elderly neighbors, and others, who live alone in homes or apartments that are not air-conditioned.
Don't forget about the animals, either; provide some water for the birds, and other wildlife, and keep your pets cool and hydrated.
Most of all, don't ever leave them in a car - leave them home instead.
Fortunately, for most of the season, we will be graced with the enjoyable weather that has been famed in song and story.
You can even help to keep the legend alive, simply by reveling in summer's benevolence.
Of course, one of the best ways to support its image is to allow yourself to be seen lying around in a hammock or other outdoor furniture as often as possible.
However, it doesn't take days of outrageously high temperatures to make people uncomfortable and lethargic; many are ready to call off work and do nothing but lie in their hammocks when the weather is "just plain hot.
" Indeed, like winter, summer has its unpleasant characteristics; it's just that, for some reason, people seem to be more willing to overlook them.
Perhaps, it's because they don't want to shatter its reputation as the "lazy, hazy, crazy" time when the "livin' is easy.
" Still, it's every bit as capable of raising energy bills and causing health problems - or worse - as its cold counterpart.
After all, getting overheated can be just as dangerous as freezing.
Although scorching weather can affect everyone, the elderly, the very young, and those who work outdoors, are the most susceptible to heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
So, when the temperature is life-threateningly hot, if you can help it, don't exert yourself in any outdoor activity for a long period.
If your job requires it, go at a slower pace, drink plenty of water, and take frequent breaks.
Otherwise, your best bet is to stay indoors, in the air-conditioning, whenever you can.
Don't feel guilty about letting a little yard work go for a few days, either.
Even if there's been a dearth of rain, which often happens during spells of extremely high temperatures, you don't absolutely have to water your grass.
It may bake for a few days, and even turn brown, but it will recover rapidly with the next rainfall.
Moreover, if you look around, you're sure to notice that some neighbors' lawns are looking a little less than lush as well.
If you have flowers and vegetables that need attention, put the sprinkler on for them.
It's also best to wear clothing that is light-colored, and made from light fabrics.
Take cool baths or showers every so often, or go for a swim, if you have easy access to a pool that's in a shady area.
When you're going outdoors, put some ice packs and wet cloths into a cooler, and keep it handy.
Remember to check on elderly neighbors, and others, who live alone in homes or apartments that are not air-conditioned.
Don't forget about the animals, either; provide some water for the birds, and other wildlife, and keep your pets cool and hydrated.
Most of all, don't ever leave them in a car - leave them home instead.
Fortunately, for most of the season, we will be graced with the enjoyable weather that has been famed in song and story.
You can even help to keep the legend alive, simply by reveling in summer's benevolence.
Of course, one of the best ways to support its image is to allow yourself to be seen lying around in a hammock or other outdoor furniture as often as possible.