It’s the middle of winter, and it’s snowy and cold out right now. We are guessing that the last thing on your mind is doing yardwork in July when the temperatures are in the 90s. Come July; you will be thinking about the cold days of winter while sweating and cursing as you mow your yard or weed the garden. We are doing this to get your mind off the snow and cold. So find a cozy spot in front of the fireplace, sit back, grab a hot chocolate and a tasty taco and read this article about ways you can keep cool while working on your yard in extreme heat. It’s bound to make you feel better.
The Dangers of Working in The Heat
Outdoor yard work can be challenging even in the best of weather conditions. But when the temperature soars, working in your yard can become dangerous if you aren’t careful. Mowing that lawn or pulling weeds from the garden can jeopardize your health and well-being if you don’t take the necessary precautions.
RELATED: MULCH VS. ROCKS: WHICH IS BETTER FOR YOUR LANDSCAPING?
Homeowners working in the heat are at risk for heat stress, which can result in heat rash, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and even a heat stroke. It is essential that you do what you can to prevent heat stress. Everybody is at risk for heat stress in hot conditions, but those who are older, overweight, and have high blood pressure are at greater risk. It is wise to know and understand the ways you can reduce the risk of heat stress when doing yard work.
DO YOU NEED A RETAINING WALL?
Staying Safe in The Heat
Limit Time: Limit the time you are spending out in your yard on sweltering days. It is also recommended that you spend some time in a cool environment to recover from the heat. Take breaks often, even if you don’t feel like you need to.
Drink Water: Everybody knows that you need to drink a lot of water when it’s hot to keep you hydrated and your body cool. But what you might not know is that it is recommended that you drink a small amount of water frequently, don’t wait for two hours, and chug down a gallon of water.
Seek Shade: If you can find work that needs to be done in the shade, that’s where you should be on really hot days. Try to avoid being out in the open under the scorching sun when you are doing yard work.
Clothing: It is best to wear light-colored clothing that is loose-fitting and breathable; cotton fabrics work quite well. You might be tempted to try to catch some sun while working in the yard, but that is not a good idea, keep yourself clothed and safe from the sun.
Know the Conditions: Before you head out to your yard to work, check a weather app to see the weather conditions. If you discover that the temperature will hit triple digits, perhaps it is best to postpone your outdoor tasks.
How a Landscaper Can Help
There are several ways in which a landscaping company can help make your yard tasks easier to complete in hot weather. For example, a pergola strategically placed on your property will add a shady area that you can enjoy. A landscaper can also plant trees and bushes that are not only beautiful but they also provide much-needed shade in the summer.
A water feature might not necessarily make you cooler while working outdoors, but it looks quite refreshing. You can peel your shoes off and soak your feet in a koi pond; that’s a fun way to cool down. If you are interested in changing up your outdoor space, give us a call, and let’s talk and see what we can do for you.
