5 Tips for Surviving a Heat Wave

Did you know that heat waves kill more Americans than any other weather disaster?  While heat waves may be a wonderful excuse for spending your day in the pool, they can actually be very dangerous–especially for little children and the elderly.

When the temperatures are rising during the summer months, it is important to keep up with any heat advisories and to be aware of future forecasts.  This way you can make sure that you are as prepared as possible for any heat waves.  We have five tips that will help to keep you and your family safe and healthy during a heat wave.

1. Stay Inside

If your home is air conditioned, stay inside as much as you can, and enjoy the 21st century convenience of air conditioning.  A heat wave is not a time to be stingy with the a/c.

2. Find a Cool Public Place

No a/c?  Or, is your unit broken?  Scout out local places you can go spend time in that will help you to cool off.  Check out libraries, malls, coffee shops, movie theaters etc….

3. Stock Up On Batteries

Because heat waves can go hand in hand with power outages, also be prepared to keep yourself cool without air conditioning.  Stock up on battery powered fans and extra batteries and keep curtains closed throughout your home in order to lessen the effects of the sun heating up the indoors.

4. Take Care of Others

Make sure to check up on any elderly family members.  According to the CDC older persons are more likely to be impacted by hot weather.

5. Stay Hydrated

If you do need to be outdoors, keep yourself well hydrated.  Drink water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.  Alcoholic and caffeinated drinks should be avoided because they are both diuretics and can actually quicken dehydration.

If you are having any trouble with your air conditioner, you want to get it looked at it before a heat wave strikes.  Contact us at FLAME Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical to learn more about our residential cooling services.