How to keep cool in hot weather - any tips?

[nannynick]

So given most of us don't have home air conditioning, what are your best tips for keeping the house, you, children all cool in hot weather?

Should windows be open, or closed with blinds to block the sun? Should the loft hatch be left open to let heat rise to the attic or does it make it worse?
Should windows be open at night to let the cooler air in?
Should fans be used to suck air in from outside, blow air out, or just circulate air in the home?
Do bowls of ice help cool surrounding air or does the water vapour do damage to the home?
Cool drinks, cool baths, cool showers, squirting everyone with water pistols?