Smart ways to keep COOL

When temperatures outside climb, beat the heat with these top tips

- ALICIA MILLER

Keep the sheets

Don't ditch your duvet entirely your body needs some kind of covering, as it helps to regulate temperature during the sleep cycle. Opt for a thin 100% cotton sheet. If you share a bed, use a separate cover to avoid the transfer of body heat. Try putting a hot water bottle or reusable gel pack in the freezer and bring it to bed with you.

Regulate your home

It's tempting to throw open windows on a beautiful day, but by letting sunshine and warm air pour into your home, you will just be making it hotter. During daylight hours, keep windows closed and blinds or curtains drawn, only opening them up after dark when temperatures have dropped. Turn off lights and appliances that generate heat too, and switch to meals that don't need to be cooked.