Staying Safe During Extreme Heat

According to the National Weather Service, heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States. Statistical data shows that heat causes more fatalities each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined.

As the weather continues to be abnormal across much of the United States, here are some great tips from FEMA about what you should do before a heat wave to ensure you are prepared and to better avoid heat related illnesses.

Before Extreme Heat:
• Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary
• Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation
• Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside
• Weather-strip doors and windows to keep cool air in
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent)
• Keep storm windows up all year

During Extreme Heat:
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun
• Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available
• Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as libraries, schools, movie theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities. Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation
• Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a doctor
• Drink plenty of water. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake
• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible
• Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks