Heatwaves can be brutal, turning even the simplest tasks into sweaty and even dangerous endeavors. High temperatures not only cause discomfort but also pose serious health risks such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Whether you’re staying indoors or venturing outside, here are essential tips to help you stay cool and safe during the hottest summer days.

Staying Cool and Safe at Home

• Optimize Your Air Conditioning: Set your thermostat to a comfortable temperature, ideally around 78°F, and use a programmable thermostat to save energy when you’re not home. Ensure your air conditioning unit is well-maintained and the filters are clean for optimal performance.
• Use Fans Efficiently: Fans can help circulate air and make your home feel cooler. Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to create a refreshing breeze. Ensure ceiling fans are rotating counterclockwise to push cool air down.
• Block Out the Sun: Close curtains, blinds, and shades during the hottest part of the day to prevent the sun from heating your home. Reflective window film or blackout curtains can also reduce indoor temperatures.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Proper hydration helps regulate your body temperature. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which can dehydrate you.
• Take Cool Showers or Baths: A cool shower or bath can quickly lower your body temperature. Alternatively, use a damp cloth or sponge to cool down your skin.
• Eat Light Meals: Eat smaller, lighter meals that are easier to digest and don’t generate as much body heat. Fresh fruits, salads, and vegetables are excellent choices, especially those with high water content like cucumbers and watermelon.
• Create a Comfortable Sleeping Environment: Use lightweight, breathable bedding and place a fan in your bedroom to improve air circulation. Placing a frozen water bottle at the foot of your bed can also help keep you cool.

Staying Cool and Safe Outdoors

• Dress for the Heat: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen.
• Schedule Activities Wisely: Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Complete outdoor tasks early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Take frequent breaks in the shade to prevent overheating.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle with you and drink water regularly. For extended periods outdoors, consider sports drinks to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat.
• Use Cooling Accessories: Stay in the shade whenever possible. Cooling towels, portable fans, and misting sprays can provide immediate relief from the heat.
• Apply Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
• Look Out for Vulnerable Individuals: Check on children, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions to ensure they are staying cool and hydrated.

By following these tips, you can manage the heat and stay safe during a heatwaves, both at home and outdoors. And should your central air system stop providing the cool air your depend on, contact P.C. right away. We’ll correctly diagnose the problem, explain what needs to be done and, with your approval, promptly get to work to restore cool and comfortable conditions.