10 ways to stay safe during a heatwave

As global temperatures rise, extreme heatwaves are becoming more and more of a regular occurrence. Here’s what to do to keep yourself and your community safe. 
 

1. Be a good neighbor: The old, the young and the sick are extra vulnerable during heatwaves. Studies show that excess mortality is highest in communities with fewer social connections. Set up a buddy system to check on neighbors and help those who struggle.
2. Home cool home: If you have air conditioning, use it. If you don’t, use fans. Some ceiling fans can be reversed to pull hot air up and out. If you can’t cool your whole home, focus on one or two rooms as your heat refuge.  
3. Low tech for lower temps: Shut the curtains to keep the sun out. Put a bowl of ice cubes in front of a fan to make an improvised air conditioner. Put a wet towel in the freezer and drape it around your neck. Take a cold shower and let your hair stay damp to extend the effect.
4. Pool resources: Immersing your body in water is a great way to cool down. Your local lake, public pool, or splash pad will do the job. Don’t have a place to swim? Stick your head in a public fountain if you must. It’s better to look silly than to end up with heatstroke.
5. The great indoors: If you can’t keep your home cool, go elsewhere. Public libraries, shopping malls, and community centers often serve as cooling locations during extreme heat events. If you have a neighbor or relative who isn’t mobile, offer to take them.  
6. Hydration station: Perspiration is your body’s way to stay cool, but as you sweat, you also lose liquids and minerals. Therefore, drink plenty of water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. A cold beer may sound like a good idea, but alcohol can dehydrate you.
7. Shade savvy: Life in the shade is usually 10-15 degrees cooler than in the sun. Embrace it whenever possible. Trees provide natural cooling and improve air quality. Walk on the shady side of the street. If you’re at a park or beach, bring an umbrella or pop-up tent.
8. Wardrobe wisdom: Light-colored garments reflect the sun’s rays. Fabrics like linen and certain synthetics used in sportswear are breathable and wick sweat away from your body. Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from harmful UV rays.
9. Smart scheduling: Plan your day to avoid the heat. Do your gardening, jogging, or errands in the early morning or after sunset or skip them altogether. If you must be out during peak heat, take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors.
10. Heat health literacy: Heat exhaustion can manifest as heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale, and clammy skin. Heatstroke may present with high body temperature, rapid and strong pulse, and unconsciousness. Be prepared to call emergency services. A quick response can save lives.  

Want to help reduce excess atmospheric heat in the near term? Contact GHR.