How can you beat the record heat and better handle days of triple-digit temperatures? LawnStarter’s pros drink lots of ice water, mow lawns early in the day (when possible), and they stay covered up to avoid sunburn.
With much of the U.S. baking and scorching summers more common, these tips may help you stay more chill if you have to go outside:
Keep Cold Water Handy
LawnStarter pro Jesse Nunez freezes his water bottle every night and drinks the cold water all day long to cool off.
Nunez and his crew also wear long sleeves with reflective colors to keep cooler. He says it works much better than shorts and sleeveless shirts.
The owner of Clean Cut Landscaping in Englewood, Colorado, also does not allow any crew members to go shirtless because of the risk of sunburn.
Chilled Hand Towels and Fresh Fruit
LawnStarter pro Chris Brininstool in Hopewell, Virginia, says, “The heat does not really bother me too much. Although starting early in the mornings is effective on very hot days.”
What’s the secret of his hot weather tolerance? “A cooler full of ice and water is always on board. Additives to your waters that boost your electrolytes are also very beneficial.”
Another tip? “Place damp hand towels in a gallon plastic bag sealed in the cooler. They are nice to cool off with,” Brininstool says.
“Over the years, I’ve also found that fresh fruit is always a good way to cool off and replenish electrolytes,” he says. “A good tip for something cool and refreshing to have on hand are the Del Monte or Dole fruit cups.”
Keep Your Neck Cool
LawnStarter pro Justin Stultz in Hutto, Texas, says keeping his neck cool is how he beats the heat mowing, edging, and trimming yards. He cites research showing that carotid artery cooling is extremely effective for keeping your face and head cool.
“I SWEAR by it,” Stultz says. “I’m a solo operator and can breeze through even the hottest parts of the day – I’m talking 105+ with heat index – with a cold/frozen bandanna.”
Final Thoughts: Stay Hydrated
“At the end of the day, with regards to the heat, it’s best to drink plenty of fluids,” Brininstool says.
“As you sweat it out, this is how our bodies cool off,” he adds. “The more you are hydrated, the less of the effects from the heat will you feel.”
Main Photo Credit: Brenda Ryan / LawnStarter
