Summer in Toronto will inevitably bring, hot, sticky and sweaty conditions.
Are you ready to cope with the heat? We have put together a list of simple, inexpensive ways you can stay cool all summer long.
Turn on the fans
Fans circulate air around a room and can help speed up sweat evaporation, cooling you off in the process. Be sure to open windows to allow hot air to escape, and place the fan near a basement entrance to allow cool air to enter the room. At night, place the fan near an open window to pump the cool night air into the room.
Turn your fan into an air conditioner
Another simple and innovative way to use your fan to cool off your home is to allow it to spread cool air throughout a room by placing a bowl of ice or a frozen jug of liquid in front of the fan as it circulates.
Opt for cotton bedsheets
While you may have already opted for those loose-fitting pajamas, also try putting cotton sheets on your bed. Cotton is a breathable material that will allow air to circulate and help lower your body heat.
Shield your widows
Almost half of your home’s heat enters through windows. A simple way to help stop heat and sunlight from permeating through the windows is to cover them with close-fitting blinds and curtains that are a light, reflective colour.
Water, water and more water
Your body needs water—and lots of it. The more water you get into your body the better. It is essential that you drink up in order to remain hydrated and to avoid heat exhaustion. A quick way to cool off is to run your wrists under cold water for about 10 seconds. Your wrists contain a main vein which will allow you to help cool your blood. You can also spray your neck often with water to help cool off, as your neck contains many of the body’s temperature sensors.
Homemade popsicles
For a fun and tasty way to cool off, try turning your child’s favourite juice or your favourite drink into a tasty homemade treat. Just pour the liquids into a tray, place in the freezer, and voila—you’re ready to enjoy your homemade fruit punch or margarita popsicle.
Backyard activities for the kids
When it comes to beating the heat there’s nothing better than using the good old-fashioned hose and sprinkler to cool off while having fun. If you’re feeling a little more creative, take an old tarp, detergent, add some water and have your kids sliding through your homemade slip-and-slide in no time.
Ferry over to Centre Island
For only $7 (adult roundtrip) you can take a ferry over to Centre Island for the day. The cool breeze off the water as well as the beaches open for swimming are a sure way for you to remain cool while also enjoying a view of the city’s skyline.
Beaches and outdoor swimming pools
If you can’t get away this summer you can always check out some of Toronto’s 11 beaches, including Cherry Beach, Sunnyside Beach and Woodbine Beaches. For a full list of Toronto beaches click here.
Toronto also operates 64 indoor pools, 58 outdoor pools, 106 wading pools and 93 splash pads, so you should have no trouble finding somewhere to cool off in the water. For a full list of Toronto pools click here.
Ice cream and gelato
Get out and indulge a little bit this summer. Toronto has many ice cream and gelato shops for you to satisfy your cravings while still beating the heat. If you’re looking for authentic Italian gelato try Dolce Gelato, with locations on Danforth Avenue and College Street. For more traditional ice cream be sure to check out the handmade and unique flavours of Ed’s Real Scoop located in the Beaches and in South Riverdale neighbourhoods.
Go to the mall or museum
Malls and museums are air conditioned, so you can shop and take in some sites while remaining cool. Walking around the mall is also a great way to get in some exercise without working up a sweat and feeling like you are actually exercising.