By Lena Vasquez, Community Features & Culture Editor

It’s now June, and it’s beginning to feel like summer. For many Sacramentans, that means days of fun in the sun are ahead, but for people who don’t have a relaible air conditioner, it can also mean misery. While nothing can keep you cool quite like a solid A/C, there are some things you can do to make it more bearable:

1. Cool Your Core, Not Just the Air
A quick way to bring your body temperature down is to target areas with high blood flow. Placing your feet in a bucket of cold or ice water can noticeably cool your entire body. A cold, damp towel around the neck works the same way.

2. Use Fans the Right Way
Ceiling fans help circulate air, but they won’t lower the temperature on their own. If you have a box fan, placing it in a window facing outward can help push hot air out, while drawing cooler air in from another window.

3. Block Out the Sun
Keep blinds or curtains closed on the side of your home facing direct sunlight. Preventing heat from entering in the first place can make a major difference indoors.

4. Reduce Indoor Heat Sources
Avoid using ovens, stoves, or unnecessary electronics during peak heat hours. Even lights can contribute to warming up a room.

5. Hydrate and Keep It Simple
Cold water goes a long way. Staying hydrated helps your body regulate temperature more effectively.

6. Get Out of the House When Needed
If conditions become uncomfortable or unsafe, consider heading to public indoor spaces like shopping centers, libraries, or coffee shops. Local cooling centers may also be available during extreme heat.

7. Take Advantage of Evenings and Early Mornings
Temperatures tend to drop overnight. Open windows during cooler hours to let fresh air circulate, then close things up again before the heat builds.

8. Get Outta Here
While traveling costs money, there are affordable places on the Northern California and Oregon coasts where you won’t break the bank. Consider a few days in Eureka or Crescent City.