We’re into the dog days of summer when high humidity makes even upper 80 degrees feel intolerable.
So after watching so many people nearly drop from the heat while walking around our monuments, let this native son of Washington offer some advice.
Go home and come back in the fall.
OK, just kidding. Still, I’m amazed how many people have forgotten how to dress and drink in the heat. I guess air conditioning has made people disregard not wearing black in the heat.
People, please wear light colors that repel the sun and make you feel cooler. Please, please remember to drink water and not sodas. And drink lots of water because by the time you feel thirsty you’re already dehydrated. I drink nearly 100 ounces of water during a day tour and it’s still not enough.
Please take a lunch break and don’t eat a hot dog. Eat something nutritious that hopefully has protein. I won’t begrudge you the bag of chips for the salt.
Remember that slow and steady does it. The heat takes more out of you than thought so consider walking around Washington as a long adventure and not something that can be done in a day. Don’t be afraid to duck into the Smithsonians in the afternoon to escape the worst heat.
And please walk or stand on escalators to the right. Locals still need to get to work.
