Tips for Staying Cool While Farming in Summer
With the heat reaching its peak at the height of summer, it can be daunting to have to go out under the hot sun to work. But farmers can’t take a day off because it’s hot; there are animals that need feeding and crops that need tending and machines that need maintenance and so on.
Fortunately, there are some ways you can try to beat the heat this summer while working on your farm. Your friends at Enlow Tractor Auction prioritize your safety and we want to share a few of our tips to make sure you stay cool this summer when you’re working with farm equipment.
1. Wear a Hat
A wide-brimmed hat can help you stay cool and keep your face and neck from burning in the sun. Try to find a hat with the widest brim possible as well as one made from natural fibers. Straw or cotton will work nicely. The fibers benefit from getting a bit wet, too; this helps them to stay limber and last longer because they’ll have more flexibility. You can also invest in a bandanna around your forehead or your neck to absorb more sweat. Don’t forget a good pair of UV-blocking sunglasses, too!
2. Dress Appropriately
You may want to dress in as little clothing as possible when working in the heat. However, dressing yourself in looser clothing that breathes well is a better strategy. A long-sleeved shirt and light pants can help keep air circulating and prevent you from getting a sunburn at the same time. You can choose fabrics like linen or cotton; however, know that cotton may get wet and clingy with sweat. Some people opt to wear moisture-wicking athletic clothing instead so that their sweat evaporates more quickly. Light colors will reflect sunlight. Whatever you choose, make sure you’re applying sunscreen to all exposed skin.
3. Buy a Fan
This might seem extreme, but many people doing gardening work will get an extension cord to plug in a fan. Set the fan in front of where you’ll be working and turn it on, and you’ll be able to feel a nice, cooling breeze as you perform your tasks. With a long enough extension cord, you should be able to move the fan around your yard or garden as you move to complete different jobs. Even a small fan will help, but a big 24” box fan is better.
4. Invest in Better Gloves
Thick gardening and farming gloves can feel oppressive and have your hands drenched in sweat after only a little while. Try to invest in a thinner cotton glove that has a sturdy, waterproof palm and a more breathable fabric over the back of your hand. This will help your hands stay cooler and less sweaty.
5. Stay Hydrated
Of course, the best way to keep yourself from suffering heatstroke and dehydration is to ensure that you’re getting enough water throughout the day. The body cools itself by sweating, which means that you’re losing both water and electrolytes as you work. Water alone isn’t sufficient, however; you’ll want to have something with salt in it to replenish electrolytes as well. Sports drinks are a good option, as is a salty snack with protein.
We hope this guide proves helpful to you! If you’re in search of farm equipment, browse our website to see the full stock of equipment for sale in Tulsa, OK. We proudly serve Oklahoma City, OK, and Wichita, KS.