With summer finally here you should know how to protect yourself from a heat dome. Here are some hints.
- Spend time in a cool or airconditioned place.
- Stay in the shade when outside and wear light, loose fitting clothing a broad hat and sunscreen.
- Drink plenty of cool fluids before you feel thirsty. Eat cold foods which contain water such as salads and fruit.
- Splash cool water on your head and neck, wear a wet shirt or towel to cool down. Take a cool shower or bath.
- Cut down on activities that overheat you and walk slowly.
- Know the signs of a medical emergency. Symptoms of heat stroke include high body temp. dizziness or fainting, confusion, lack of coordination, or very hot and red skin.
- Check in by phone,video chat, or in-person with anyone you know who is more vulnerable to heat. This includes people over 60, those who live alone, with pre-existing physical or mental conditions, and people who use drugs. Remember to check on pets too.
- Close blinds or drapes during the day and only open the windows at night.
- Indoor temperatures between 26 (79) and 31(88) degrees can be dangerous. If your home goes above, get to an airconditioned space.
- IF YOU NEED HELP
- Medical Emergencies: Phone 9-1-1
- Questions on heat-related symptoms: Phone 8-1-1
- For public locations to help you keep cool: Phone 3-1-1
