HOLY SMOKES! Is it a hot summer this year or what?! All across the world people are experiencing above average temperatures to a completely scorching degree! In Oregon, a 200 year old tree even exploded due to this suffocating wave of heat. France is experiencing their 4th wave of heat, and a historic drought. Same goes for the UK.
Now you may be asking yourself, but what about our dear state of Montana? Unfortunately, we’re no safer than the rest of the world from this devastating heat. There was even a danger advisory for the Northern Rockies for the dates July 19-31st, with high temperatures ranging from 98-108*, according to the Montana Public Radio. This means it is essential to know the best tips and tricks to keep you, and your kiddos or fur babies if you got ‘em, cool for the summer.
ICE CUBES IN THE KIDDIE POOL
This one is pretty self explanatory. If you don’t have access to a big pool or body of cool, clean water, the kiddie pool is for you. It’s the perfect size for setting a beach chair in, breaking open a beer and cooling down. You can even add fun elements to enhance the experience. Perhaps some ice cubes that were frozen with flowers or colors. You can even add a few drops of essential oil to enhance the smell. If you’ve got kiddos, different textures and scents would be amazing. Throw in some toys and it’ll be a super splashy, fun experience! And everyone will beat the heat.
SLIP N SLIDE
If you’ve got the space and the hose, a slip n slide is the perfect way to get active and cool down. It can be a spectacular centerpiece for an outdoor party, and a great way to distract the kiddos during a barbecue. Nothing like a good ol fashioned splash activity. There’s plenty of options to choose from, but Walmart has an amazing and affordable Wham-O brand slide.
Make sure to be aware of how much you’re running the slide, because the last thing you want to do in a drought is waste a TON of water. We’re grasping at straws as normal people, so I think we’re entitled a little bit.
LAKE TIME
If you’re lucky enough to live in Montana, you know about our many amazing, natural water features. From floating down the Clark Fork River, to taking a dip in Flathead lake, Montana has really got it all when it comes to natural bodies of water. Check out this list of Montana’s best water features, according to Only In Your State. All you need to do is pack up some snacks, grab a tube or a floatie, and find a public place to dip your toes! Make sure to clean up after yourself, and always be aware of the wildlife around you. Montana Grant has a great piece on the dangers of Lake Rattlers!
HOMEMADE POPSICLES
This one is an easy, and fun little treat to enjoy. It’s also super customizable. If you don’t feel like buying a popsicle mold, like this super cute one from Walmart, you can always just buy popsicles. Or, an ice cube tray with popsicle sticks sticking out of the cubes. Anything from juice to tea, frozen fruit and smoothie mix! You can create the perfect popsicle, and maybe one without as much sugar and fake flavoring in it. This way, whenever you’re feeling the heat, chow down on some popsicles and beat the heat.
RUNNING IN THE SPRINKLER
This one is pretty old school, but it holds true because it’s a quality activity. If you’re already running the sprinklers anyway, run yourself through em! This will help your yard and you, and will keep you and the kiddos cool and busy for hours! The best option for this is a hose sprinkler, so you can control how long the water is on and move it every now and then to increase the distribution across your yard. Of course, be contentious about how much water you’re using, but while the big guys are flying private jets and cooking the planet, we can have a little water sourced fun.
Alright, that’s my Krawdaddy official recommendation for this hot, hot summer. There’s plenty more ideas I’m sure, and be sure to let us know what you come up with on any of our socials! I hope you and your loved ones can manage to stay safe and cool during this extensive heat wave! Have fun splashing!