Tips for Staying Cool at the Market

As summer heats up, don’t forget to keep cool and stay safe at the market. Here are our tips for enjoying your visit even at the height of the hot season.

Hydrate: The best way to beat the outdoor heat is to drink plenty of water. Doctors recommend about 64 ounces of fluid per day, but an extra glass or two never hurts when you know you’ll be spending time outside. For your convenience, we have placed a cooler full of icy-cold water at the information stand, located at the Flat Shoals entrance of the market. We are happy to share, and although we do provide cups, we’d love for you to bring a reusable container for refilling.

Protect your skin: Even though the EAV Farmers Market avoids the peak sunburn hours between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., applying a generous amount of a broad-spectrum, SPF 30 or higher sunscreen before all outdoor activities is the best insurance against harmful sun exposure. For maximum protection, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outside. A wide-brimmed hat can also help to prevent a painful, skin-damaging sunburn. And don’t skimp on the skin protection just because it’s cloudy. Even on overcast days, nearly half of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation still reaches the Earth.

Listen to your body: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can stress the body’s natural cooling systems. If you begin exhibiting any of the most common symptoms of heat exhaustion―heavy sweating, faintness, dizziness, fatigue, weak or rapid pulse, nausea or headache― seek out some shade or air-conditioning, rest, and drink cool, non-caffeinated beverages. Ignoring the signs of heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, which is a serious, life-threatening condition.

Remember your best friend: If the afternoon seems sweltering to you, chances are your furry friend feels it too. Because they can’t release heat by sweating, dogs don’t tolerate hot, humid weather as well as humans. Be sure to provide your pooch with plenty of cool water when he accompanies you to the market. On their Facebook page, our friends at East Atlanta Animal Clinic warn you to watch for the symptoms of overheating in pets, which can include excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse. Animals with flat faces, like bulldogs and pugs are more susceptible to heat stroke since they cannot pant as effectively. If you notice any of these signs of heat stress, move your pet to a cooler place immediately.

We can’t wait to enjoy this summer with you at the market!