☀️ 10 Smart & Simple Ways to Beat the Summer Heat in Forsyth County

A local guide for families, seniors, and everyone living their best (and coolest) life in Forsyth County and Georgia.

Let’s be real—Georgia summers are no joke. When the temps hit the high 90s (and the humidity adds its own personality), it can feel like you’re walking through soup. But life doesn’t stop just because it’s hot outside—there are parks to visit, errands to run, grandkids to chase, and dogs to walk.

Whether you’re a long-time Forsyth County resident or new to town, here are 10 smart, local-approved ways to stay safe and beat the heat this summer.

🌳 1. Take Your Walks Early (or Late)

Georgia’s peak heat strikes between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., and it’s especially tough on seniors and little ones. If walking is part of your routine, try to head out before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m.

Local tip: The Big Creek Greenway offers plenty of tree cover, and spots like Mary Alice Park and Sawnee Mountain Preserve offer early morning trails with a nice breeze.

🧃 2. Hydrate Like a Pro

When it’s humid, we sweat more—even when we don’t feel it. Dehydration sneaks up fast in this kind of weather. Keep a water bottle handy everywhere (yes, even just driving around town), and aim to drink before you’re thirsty.

💡 Bonus: Add some electrolytes or fruit slices to your water for flavor and better absorption.

🏊 3. Cool Off at the Cumming Aquatic Center

This one’s a no-brainer. The Cumming Aquatic Center is a favorite for families and seniors alike with its indoor lap pools, water therapy sessions, and family fun splash play area. It’s clean, cool, and affordable.

📍 Cumming Aquatic Center Info

🌬 4. Stay in the Shade (and Use Cooling Towels)

Umbrellas, shade tents, wide-brimmed hats, and cooling towels are all great tools for staying cool while still enjoying time outside. If you’re going to a festival, farmers market, or park, pack a little shade with you!

🛒 Local favorites like Academy Sports and REI in nearby Alpharetta carry cooling gear for all ages.

🧓 5. Senior Tip: Check In and Cool Down

Seniors are more vulnerable to heatstroke and dehydration. If you’re a caregiver or neighbor, check in on elderly loved ones daily. Encourage them to keep the air conditioning running or visit one of Forsyth County’s senior centers.

📍 Charles Place Senior Center has free indoor activities, games, and A/C-powered fun.

🍦 6. Indulge in a Local Cold Treat

There’s nothing like a cold dessert to fight the heat. Visit one of Forsyth’s top spots for something frozen:

Dutch Monkey Doughnuts – Grab a cold brew & iced sweet treat
Mochibees – Try the mochi-style ice cream donuts
Tropical Sno (seasonal) – A local shaved ice fan-favorite near Marketplace Blvd

🏠 7. Know Where to Go When It’s Too Hot

When your A/C breaks or your power goes out, knowing where to cool off is important.

Here are a few Forsyth County heat emergency resources:

Forsyth County Libraries (cool, quiet, and open 7 days a week)
📍 Post Road Branch Info
Cooling Centers (Pop-Up During Heat Advisories)
🔗 Check the Forsyth County Emergency Management site for announcements
City of Cumming Recreation Center – Free indoor walking track for seniors

🐶 8. Protect Your Pets

If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Walk dogs early, never leave pets in cars (even for a “quick errand”), and keep bowls of clean, cool water outside if you have outdoor pets.

🚨 Did you know? On a 90°F day, your car can hit 120°F in minutes—even with windows cracked.

👒 9. Dress for Survival

Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, and wear light colors that reflect sunlight. Loose clothes = more airflow. And don’t forget SPF!

🧴 Local pharmacy stops like Publix, CVS, and Ingles carry summer skin care and wide-brim hats.

📲 10. Stay Weather-Aware

Use free weather apps like AccuWeather, WeatherBug, or NOAA Weather Radio for heat alerts and air quality updates. Seniors especially should take note of heat advisory warnings and adjust activities accordingly.

🌀 Pro Tip: Bookmark Ready Georgia for statewide emergency info.

Staying safe in the heat doesn’t mean staying inside all day. With a little planning, hydration, and local knowledge, you can live, play, and explore Forsyth County all summer long—without overheating.

Have a favorite tip for keeping cool or a hidden shady spot you love? Share it with us on Instagram @LivingInForsyth or drop a comment below!

Live, Eat, Play and Stay Cool in FOCO!