How to Dress to Avoid Heat Stroke

You might not realize it, but you can overheat yourself by the clothes you wear. Heat stroke is a condition brought on by extremely hot weather that affects your body temperature. Choose the right clothes to avoid the risk of heat stroke.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Hat
• Summer sheets
• Mesh-trimmed workout gear
• Loose clothing
• Light sleepwear
• Breathable beach attire

Choose Cool Clothing

1. Look at the big picture and plan your wardrobe. Evaluate what your activity is going to be in the heat and dress appropriately for the environment. If attending an outdoor graduation, ditch the blazer or long-sleeved shirt.

2. Select the right clothes for the beach. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap to keep you cool. Purchase a swimsuit made of breathable material that is not too dark in color and wear loose shorts. Be sure and put on a good sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more.

3. Avoid layered clothing for exercising in the heat. You want to give your body room to perspire and not overheat it. Select light fabrics suited for activity. Buy mesh-accented workout gear. This can include tank tops, shorts, sports bras, light workout bottoms or quarter-length pants.

4. Dress smart at work. If you work in an office where the temperature fluctuates, wear an outfit that can accommodate this. Select a light jacket or shirt. Consider a nice tank top or blouse that is appropriate for a business environment (or a short-sleeved dress shirt for a man).

5. Stay away from wearing heavy clothing to sleep. You can get overheated during the night, too. Dress your beds in light sheets and pillow cases for the summer months. This will help your skin and body stay cool.

6. Take a dip in the pool or douse yourself with a garden hose or sprinkler. Wear your semi-wet bathing suit around the house to lower your body temperature. Barbecue meals to avoid using your oven during the hot months.

Tips & Warnings

• Dress infants and toddlers to avoid heat stroke and provide shading. Select hats to protect your little one and block the strong sun. Provide cool, loose-fitted clothing such as thin, soft cotton. Limit your child's sun exposure while at the beach especially during the hot mid-day sun.

• If planning a wedding, consider the time of year and where you are holding it. Select your wedding dress and other outfits for your bridal party geared toward the weather or location. You don't want any cases of heat stroke on your big day.