Keeping Cool
When a power outage occurs during the steamy days of summer, our first thoughts are usually about air-conditioning and refrigeration. The good news is that there are things you can do to be surprisingly comfortable despite the apparent hardships. Many of these methods you already know, and the others are really just good common sense.
Dress Cool
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing; if you're in the sun, wear light-colored clothing and a protective hat.
Draperies
Keep them closed on the sunny side of the house during the day.
Windows
Open them at nights or on mild days for natural ventilation.
Baths
Take them frequently with tepid water to lower body temperature.
Fluids
Drink small amounts of water and fruit juices often.
Chores
Keep strenuous activity to a minimum. If a job doesn't have to be done, don't do it. If you must, do them during the cooler parts of the day.
Refrigerator
Keep it and the freezer closed as much as possible. If thawing begins, put in dry or wet ice if you can get it. A picnic cooler is handy to store ice and food for short periods of time.
Cooking
It can be done in the fireplace, over the barbecue grill, or on the camping stove. Use the grill and stove outdoors to avoid danger to toxic fumes and possible fires.