Summer 2017

How to keep your cool during a heat wave

What do you do to stay cool in hot weather? You might blast the AC and relax with a cold drink, but you can't spend the whole summer indoors hiding from the sun. Make sure you know what to do in times of extreme heat.

It doesn’t take much for hot weather to become a problem. A couple of days or a few weeks of unusually high temperatures is all it takes. It’s not always easy to escape the heat, either. If you work or play outside in hot weather, your health could be at risk. Heat can be even more punishing for the elderly, small children and people who carry excess weight.

What to do during a heat wave

• Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty, but avoid drinks with caffeine and alcohol.
• Eat light foods that are easy to digest. Think fruits and salads, not tacos and pizza. Large meals can warm the body.
• Take a cold shower, not a hot one. Run the bathroom fan after a shower. This can make the house less humid.
• Keep the windows shut during the day to keep hot air out and open at night to let cool air in. 
• When outside, wear light clothes and try to stay in the shade. Apply sunscreen every few hours. Keep a water bottle handy.
• Never leave children or pets alone in a hot car.
• Be careful when it comes to exercise. Work out in an air conditioned gym. If you are active outdoors, be sure to take frequent breaks.

Beat the heat by being prepared

Be cautious when it is very hot and humid outside. If you get a headache and feel dizzy, get to a cool place quickly. This could be a warning sign of heat stroke. Other signs include dry, hot and red skin and a weak, rapid pulse.

If you think you’re having heat stroke, call 911 for help. A severe case of heat stroke could become life threatening or cause brain damage. To cool down, wrap your body in wet towels or sheets, or sit in a bathtub of cool water. Drink cold water. Stay quiet and calm until help arrives.

The best way to protect yourself and your family from heat stroke is to be prepared. Listen to news and weather reports. When it’s very hot, stay indoors where it’s cool. You might need to cancel plans for a hike or game when it’s too hot outside. If your home is also very hot during the day, go to a movie, library or mall. Stock your fridge with cold drinks. Also, make sure that your pets will have enough water and shade.