Top tips for staying cool in the heat

As the UK hots up Solar Gard has issued ten top tips for keeping cool while staying green.

Turn off your appliances
Leaving appliances such as printers and computers on standby can use up almost as much energy as when they are switched on. This creates unnecessary heat in the office and contributes substantially to your overall energy bill

Turn the lights out
Keeping lights off and blinds closed will ensure that your office is significantly cooler when you arrive to work

Plant shrubs
Tall, leafy plants in the office are an excellent source of shade and an eliminator of carbon dioxide, offering a solution that is both environmentally and heatwave-friendly

Make use of water
Carry a bottle of water with you everywhere to stay hydrated, and have buckets of water in the office – the evaporation of these helps to cool the air. Also, placing your feet, the sweatiest part of your body, into water throughout the day will help to regulate your body temperature

Wear lightweight clothing
Wearing lightweight clothing, such as linen, will leave you feeling less overheated when exposed to high temperatures. Choosing white clothing is also a very good way to reflect, rather than absorb heat

Use a hand-fan
Use a hand-fan, rather than a battery-powered or electric fan, to make sure you can cool yourself down when the sun comes out

Use sun-protecting Window Film
As window film rejects up to 75% of solar heat, buildings and cars stay cooler without the use of air conditioning. Many window film vendors are also registered as Carbon Negative, which emphasises their dedication to reducing CO₂