Summer Heat and The Window Cleaner

morgurfileWith temperatures soaring into the 90’s and beyond in most of the country, some window cleaners struggle to keep hydrated. I know it may sound silly, but when you are busy getting that glass clean, you can easily get dehydrated if you do not pay attention. So, what’s a window washer to do? Here are a few hints on staying healthy in this heat, for those of you that need to be reminded that you are not Superman or Wonder Woman.
1. Drink plenty of fluids. And, in case you were wondering, fluids means water and Gatorade, not Red Bull and Mountain Dew.
2. Everyone remembers the whole 8 glasses a water a day bit, but when you are exercising, like cleaning windows, you need more. In fact, some sources say to consume half your body weight in ounces of water. For a 200 pound person, that’s 100 ounces!
3. Instead of cookies and chips, pack something that contains water, like cucumbers, watermelon or cantalope. It’s not only healthier, but helps with that fluid intake.
4. Wear sunscreen. Skin cancer is nasty and, in our industry, my bet is that the rates are pretty high.
5. Wear loose fitting, light colored clothing to keep cool. If you are not afraid of the dorkiness factor, wear a wide-brimmed hat. It will keep you cool and keep those hot rays off your face.