How to Stay Cool When the Weather is Hot at Camp

Everyone knows that it gets pretty hot in the summer.  At summer camp, campers spend the whole day outside, staying active and participating in many fun activities.  Because campers spend so long in the sun, it’s very important to find ways to stay cool throughout the day.    In the past, one fun activity was to run through the sprinklers, but we also want to remember that it’s especially important to find ways to conserve water.  Here are several fun ways to beat the heat at camp. 

  • Drink Lots of Water.  The most important thing to do when it’s hot is to drink enough water.  Don’t forget, drinking water is for drinking!  Although ice water is always provided at various activities, all campers should bring a water bottle with them so they can refill it throughout the day.
  • Bring Your Own Ice Water.  There is also a great way to bring your own ice water from home.  The night before camp, fill your bottle up half way and stick it in the freezer overnight.  The next morning, fill it the rest of the way up, and you’ll have ice cold water all day!  This also means that you won’t have to wait for your entire water bottle to melt before you can drink it.
  • Enjoy a Cold Lunch.  Freeze a juice box and stick it in your lunch to keep your food nice and cool all day.  By the time your lunch break rolls around, the juice box will have melted and be ready to enjoy!
  • Take Breaks.   It helps a lot to take small breaks throughout the day to just sit in the shade and relax.  After spending some time in the sun, it’s a good idea to take a break and sit in the shade for a while.  This can help prevent anyone from getting too hot or dehydrated. 
  • Bring a Squirt Bottle.  Some campers like to bring a small squirt bottle with them!  This is a great way to stay cool, but always remember to ask first before squirting anyone!
  • Soak Your Hat or Bandana.  Conserve water and stay cool for hours by soaking your hat or bandana in water! 

Staying safe in the hot sun is the most important thing to remember during the summer.  Always practice proper sun and heat safety by drinking water and wearing sunscreen, so you can have a safe and fun summer despite the heat. 

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