When you are in the middle of a heat wave, it makes sense to wonder what you can do to keep cool.
Here are some tips on how to stay safe during a heat wave.
Don’t Go In The Sun
Cheryl Nelson, a FEMA-certified natural disaster preparedness instructor, says stay indoors with air conditioning.
However, if you don’t have air conditioning in your house, she suggests visiting a cooling center, library, shopping mall, or “any public place with air conditioning.”
Nelson says, “If you’re at home at night without air conditioning, keep your windows open for ventilation and sleep on the lowest level of your home — cold air sinks, hot air rises.”
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Run Fans For Extra Ventilation
Nelson recommends keeping the ceiling fan blades spinning counterclockwise if you have one.
She says, “When your ceiling fan spins fast in this direction, the air is pushed down, creating a cool breeze.”
Consume Hydrating Foods
You can keep hydrated by eating the right foods and drinking fluids.
Nelson says, “During a heat wave, I recommend eating vegetables and fruits such as cucumbers, celery, lettuce, strawberries, and melons.”
Close Your Windows And Blinds During The Day
Nelson says it keeps out the heat generated by the sun.
When there is no air conditioning, you should open your windows and shades at night to let in cooler air and let any heat that has been trapped inside during the day escape.
Intake Fluids
Conroy says, “On hot days, you’ll have to drink a little more than expected. A typical goal for fluid intake is 64 ounces, but when the temperature is 100 degrees or higher, you may need to double that.”
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Conroy advises avoiding alcohol and heavily caffeinated beverages since they can dehydrate you.
Conroy recommends looking out for heat exhaustion symptoms, including:
- Heavy sweating
- Cold, pale, and clammy skin
- Fast, weak pulse
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness or weakness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fainting
Conroy advises getting out of direct sunlight, drinking water, and applying ice packs in such situations.