Killer Heat

Be careful as the temperature rises

It’s been hot for the past several days. Very hot indeed. The thermometer shows it. The heat index shows it. And we all feel it.

Thankfully, most of us enjoy cool cars and cool homes thanks to air conditioning. That allows us relief from the scorching summer sun.

Still, it pays to be cautious when outdoors. The heat can be a killer if you aren’t prepared.

Here are some tips for keeping cool on hot days from the Federal Emergency Management Agency website at fema.gov:

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 physician.

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 widebrimmed 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.

Common sense heat safety is about more than staying comfortable—it’s about staying alive.