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SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Summer is in full swing, and so are extremely high temperatures.
Beach trips, barbeques and plenty of other outdoor activities are summer staples, but being out in high temperatures and humidity without taking precautions can have dangerous consequences.
Officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration suggest wearing lightweight, loose fitting and light-colored clothing.
Wearing colors like white, tan, khaki and pastel colors can help reflect the sun’s rays.
Experts at REI said that the most important thing to do when experiencing high humidity is to wear loose clothing. When clothing clings to your body, it’s more likely to soak up sweat and keep the sweat on your skin.
On a non-humid, but hot day, you can wear “wicking” clothing items to manage moisture.
“However, on a hot, humid day, the air around you is nearly or completely saturated with water vapor, leaving no place for the sweat to go but sit on your skin or be absorbed by your clothing,” REI expert Joe Pasteris said.
Clothes made of lighter fabrics also typically dries quicker, which can help mitigate sweat sitting on your skin.
Clothing with built in vents or mesh panels can also help with keeping cool.
“These features, plus a looser fit, help to increase airflow on hot, humid days, and even the smallest amount of airflow can greatly improve drying time and aid in evaporation,” Pasteris said.
If you need to wear a hat, look for hats with vents that are made of lightweight and quick drying material.
Bandanas and neck gaiters dunked in water can also be used to help keep your neck cool, but they should be removed in humid conditions when they don’t feel cool to the touch.