When temperatures climb to dangerous levels, it can be dangerous for the health of people and animals. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), each year, there are 67,512 emergency department visits and 702 deaths related to the heat in the U.S.

It’s vital that heat waves are taken seriously and that people know how to handle them in order to stay hydrated, cool, healthy, and out of danger.

What to Do During a Heat Wave

A heat wave is declared when temperatures outdoors remain above normal for an extended duration, which could be days or weeks. While heat waves can be dangerous for all people and pets, they are especially dangerous for the elderly, children, people with no home cooling systems, and those with chronic health conditions.

Pay attention to the weather forecasts and heed the following suggestions for how to handle a heat wave:

  • Use a fan to help the air circulate. When air is moving, it helps people feel cooler. This is because moving air increases how fast our bodies let go of heat due to evaporation.
  • Stay indoors as much as possible. If you have to go outdoors, do so during the late evening or early morning.
  • Take cool baths and showers.
  • Apply wet towels to your skin.
  • Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing during a heat wave.
  • Avoid rigorous activity. If you must partake in strenuous activities outdoors, drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade often.
  • Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Juice and sports drinks are also helpful. Carbonated beverages, alcohol, and caffeine should all be avoided.

In addition, it’s a good idea to sign up for a heat alert service to receive alerts when a heat wave is forecast. Doing so can help you prepare to stay as cool as possible during the hottest weather.

Additional Tips for Battling Dangerous High Temperatures

When a heat wave approaches, there are some additional ways you can stay as cool as possible. Close your blinds and curtains to stop the hot sun from entering the house. Up to 30% of the heat in buildings can be caused by light entering through windows. In addition, if it’s cool enough for you at night, open a few windows to let cooler air indoors.

If you have an air conditioner, use it and maintain the highest comfortable temperature for your comfort. If you don’t have a heat pump or central air conditioner, consider purchasing a window unit, a portable A/C unit, or window fans.

If you must work outside, always have water bottles with you and a place to go to that is shady for your breaks. Finally, never leave children or pets in cars, even for a minute.

Stay Safe During Heat Waves with A-1 Guaranteed Heating & Air, Inc.

It’s important to know what to do if you or someone else begins exhibiting signs of heat-related illness. Some signs include headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, rapid breathing, and dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, get to a cool place, drink plenty of fluids, and take a cool shower or bath. Seek medical attention if your symptoms don’t improve.

To help you stay cool during dangerous heat waves, count on A-1 Guaranteed Heating & Air, Inc. We can install various types of air conditioning systems, repair systems that need attention, and maintain systems to keep them in efficient working condition.

Contact A-1 Guaranteed today and schedule an appointment with us today for your cooling needs in the Bay Area and all surrounding areas.