Keeping cool in a non-air conditioned apartment during the summer can be challenging, especially on those sweltering hot days. However, there are several ways to stay comfortable and cool without the luxury of an AC unit. Below are five tips to help you stay cool during summer days and nights.

1. Use Fans: Fans are an inexpensive and effective way to keep cool in a non-air conditioned apartment. Ceiling fans can keep the air circulating, while stand-up or table fans can provide a more direct and stronger airflow. Placing a bowl of ice in front of a standing fan can enhance the cooling effects.
2. Utilize Window Treatments: Efficient window treatments can be very useful in keeping the heat from entering your apartment. Closing curtains, blinds, and shades during the day will block sunlight and prevent heat from getting into your living space. Invest in light-colored window treatments as they reflect sunlight and prevent heat absorption.
3. Avoid Heat Sources: During the hottest times of the day, avoid using heat sources such as the oven, stove, or dryer. Cooking on a grill or eating cold meals such as salads or sandwiches can save you from heat sources and their residual heat.
4. Use Cooler Colors and Materials: Using lighter colors in interior decor is a good idea because darker colors attract heat. Wearing and using lightweight, airy materials are also very effective in keeping cool during summer days and nights.
5. Stay Hydrated and Cool: It’s imperative to stay hydrated during the summer months. Drink plenty of water, if you need to cool down quickly, you can place cold, wet towels on your wrists, neck, or forehead. If you can, take a cool shower or dip your feet in cold water. All of these act as a great coolant and help you stay refreshed.

Keeping cool in a non-air conditioned apartment during the summer requires creativity and resourcefulness. Utilizing window treatments, investing in fans, avoiding heat sources, utilizing cooler colors and materials and staying hydrated are just some ways to combat high temperatures. These simple solutions can make your home a haven of relaxation and comfort.

Use the comments below to share with us how you are keeping cool without AC this summer.

Preparing for a fire emergency in your apartment building can be crucial when it comes to protecting yourself and your loved ones. Here are some steps you can take to be prepared:

1. Develop a fire escape plan: It's important to have a plan in place on how to escape your apartment in case of a fire emergency. Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan and practice it regularly.
   
2. Know your building's evacuation plan: Every building has an evacuation plan in case of a fire emergency, so make sure you know the details of your building's plan.
   
3. Be aware of fire hazards: Be mindful of what can cause fires in your apartment, such as cooking, smoking, candles, or electrical wiring. Make sure to take the necessary precautions to prevent fires, such as not leaving cooking unattended and avoiding smoking indoors.
   
4. Check your smoke detectors: Make sure your apartment has working smoke detectors and test them regularly to ensure they're functioning properly.
   
5. Keep a fire extinguisher: Having a fire extinguisher in your apartment can help you put out small fires before they spread. Make sure to know how to use it before an emergency occurs.
   

By taking these steps, you can help prepare yourself and your household for a fire emergency in your apartment building.

Chris Baskin writes to help others live more simply explaining ways for renters to stay cool and save money this summer.  In an article from October 2022, when he wrote for Treehugger.com, he wrote about ways to stay cool and save money during the summer.
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Check out these Resource Materials from USDA's Food and Nutrition Service.