Summer's coming, and so are long, hot summer nights. And with utility bills going up along with the price of fossil fuels, it might be a good idea to find ways to combat the heat without flipping the switch on that energy-hogging air conditioner.

Using opaque shades and / or curtains to block light from coming into the house during the day can cut the inside temperature substantially. Minimizing the amount of cooking, especially avoiding using the oven, helps as well. After the sun goes down and the outside temperature drops, it's easy to lower the inside temperature by setting up two fans on opposite ends of a room or the home, placing one to draw the cool outside air into the home, the other facing out to pull the warmer inside air to the outdoors. If you have a two-story house, placing a fan on the first floor in front of a door or window, facing in, will pull in the cooler air, while a second fan facing out in front of a window on the second floor will pull the hot air up through the house and out, eventually cooling both floors. Once the indoor living area is cool, it's okay to shut and lock doors and windows at night for safety's sake.

In terms of clothing, opt for woven cotton, either a nightgown or pajamas, rather than polyester - loose fitting rather than tight. The same with sheets: A one-hundred-percent woven cotton sheet set will be much cooler than polyester or other manmade materials. Don't forget to drink plenty of liquids, including such summer treats as iced tea and lemonade.

A few easy measures can keep you comfortable this summer, and may allow you to avoid using that expensive air conditioner in all but the hottest weather. Good for your comfort, and great for your pocketbook!