EXTREME HEAT
Stay Cool
Extreme heat occurs when the temperatures are much hotter and/or humid than average. It causes more deaths each year than any other weather-related event.
It is important to take extreme heat seriously.
Preparing for Extreme Heat
Prepare Your Home
Do not rely on fans as your primary cooling source as they don’t lower body temperature.
Keep windows closed, as well as blinds and curtains. Add insulation and weatherizing materials, like weather stripping and window reflectors, to keep heat out.
If you are using window air conditioners, insulate around them.
Know Where To Go
If your home is not remaining cool, it is important to go somewhere safe where you can stay cool.
Identify cool locations you can go within your community, including libraries, malls, and cooling centers or stations provided by your local community.
Get Help with Cooling Costs
There are programs available to help you if you can’t afford costs related to cooling or maintaining energy-related repairs.
KNOW THE SIGNS
Heat-related illnesses are serious and can cause significant issues, including death. Protect yourself and your family by knowing the signs of heat-related illness.
HEAT STROKE
Symptoms: include body temperatures above 103 degrees; red, dry skin with no sweat; dizziness or unconsciousness; and increased pulse.
What to do: Call 9-1-1 and get the affected person to a hospital immediately. Do not give anything to drink. Keep them cool until help arrives.
HEAT EXHAUSTION
Symptoms: Increased sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, low pulse, dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea, and vomiting.
What to do: Go to a cool location to cool down immediately. Remove any extra layers of clothing. Call your doctor if symptoms get worse or persist after an hour.
HEAT CRAMPS
Symptoms: Muscle pain or spasms in legs, arms or stomach
What to do: Go to a cool location to cool down immediately. Remove any extra layers of clothing. Call your doctor if symptoms get worse or persist after an hour.
During Extreme Heat
Be Smart Outside
If you are outside, try to stay in the shade as much as possible and limit physical activity, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Protect Your Pets
If pets are outside, provide plenty of water.
Avoid walking pets on dark paved areas during the hottest parts of the day.
Dress Accordingly
Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, especially when outside. Consider wearing a hat.
Protect Family Members
If children are playing outside, keep them hydrated by ensuring they drink plenty of water. Plan for breaks inside to cool down.
Be sure to check on elderly family members and neighbors to ensure their homes are cool and they are protected.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Keep a water bottle close by, especially when you are outdoors.
Vehicle Safety
Never leave pets or people inside a car, no matter the amount of time.