Tips for Dealing with Summer Heat
Several of our community members who live in the deep South have kids who do band camp or sports camps in the summer. The following suggestions include several that have been given to our kids in preparation for these activities.
Before arriving at Wild Goose Festival:
1. Don’t let the Wild Goose Festival be the first time you’ve been outside this summer. If possible, get outside during the hottest part of the day and maybe even take a walk. Yes, we realize that for some, the hottest part of the day where you live is nothing like eastern North Carolina. (We are jealous btw.) This suggestion is also a reminder for those in the deep South, because let’s be honest, most of us sit inside an air conditioned building most of the summer.
2. Drink an additional amount of water every day at least a week before the festival. Some have suggested around a liter. This will help your body adjust to the extra water you will be drinking at WGF. If you wait to start drinking extra water when you get to the WGF, your body will simply flush it out. You will find yourself visiting a bathroom a lot when you first begin this practice, but in a few days your body will adjust. Note: it is possible to drink too much water, especially if you consume it all at once, so start drinking the extra water in the morning and continue throughout the day. This will give your body a chance to absorb it.
3. Avoid drinking soda and sugary drinks. Soda can actually dehydrate your body because of the high levels of sodium, sugar, and especially caffeine.
During Wild Goose Festival:
4. Continue to drink lots of water throughout the day before you feel thirsty.
5. Have electrolyte drinks available so that you can replace the fluids and minerals lost when you sweat. Continue to avoid sodas and sugary drinks.
6. Wear loose fitting, lightweight, light colored clothing (made from sweat wicking material if possible).
7. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and wear a hat and sunglasses.
8. Eat foods that are high in water content like fruits and salads.
9. Take regular breaks to visit the misting stations to cool your body temperature, but avoid standing in front of a non misting fan as your only strategy for dealing with heat. The moving air can trick your body into thinking it doesn’t need to sweat. Believe it or not, sweating is a good thing.
10. Take a cool shower, find a shaded area, or spend some time in air conditioning if possible. Wear a wet towel or bandana on your head, neck, and shoulders. There are several types of cooling towels you can purchase that really help.
11. If you experience confusion, dizziness, nausea, or a rapid heart rate, seek immediate medical care. We have a team of people in the Ranger station who can assist you.
12. The final suggestion may not be popular, but here it is. Alcohol consumption causes dehydration, so be aware of this and try to limit it especially during the hottest part of the day.
We hope these suggestions will help you have an incredibly enjoyable experience at the Wild Goose Festival.