Beat the Heat: Simple Ways to Stay Safe This Summer
Summer in Western Pennsylvania can be unpredictable, but one thing is certain: when temperatures soar, it's important to take heat seriously. Whether you're working outside, spending time with family or simply trying to stay comfortable at home, a few simple precautions can help you stay safe during extreme heat.
Here are a few simple ways to stay safe when temperatures climb:
- Drink Water, Even Before You're Thirsty: One of the easiest ways to prevent heat-related illness is to stay hydrated. Keep a water bottle nearby and drink regularly throughout the day. If you're spending extended time outdoors, consider drinks that help replenish electrolytes.
- Take Breaks and Find Some Shade: Whether you're working outside, mowing the lawn or spending the day at a ballgame, give your body time to cool down. Take breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned space whenever possible.
- Know the Warning Signs: Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly. Watch for symptoms such as dizziness, headache, excessive sweating, fatigue or confusion. If you or someone else begins experiencing these symptoms, move to a cooler location and seek medical attention if needed.
Check In on Loved Ones
Extreme heat can be especially dangerous for older adults, young children and people with certain medical conditions. A quick phone call or visit can go a long way in making sure loved ones are staying cool and hydrated.
Keep Your Home Cool
A few small adjustments can help keep your home comfortable:
- Close blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block solar heat gain — the heat that enters your home through windows from direct sunlight.
- Use ceiling fans to help circulate cool air. Set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise to create a wind chill effect. This allows you to comfortably raise your thermostat by four degrees without losing comfort.
- Avoid running large heat-producing appliances such as ovens, dryers and dishwashers between 2-6 p.m.
Be Prepared for Possible Outages
Periods of prolonged extreme heat can increase demand on the electric grid and the likelihood of service disruptions. Make sure your phone is charged, keep flashlights handy and have an emergency kit stocked with essential supplies just in case.
At the end of the day, heat safety comes down to a few basics: stay hydrated, stay cool and look out for one another. By taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy everything summer has to offer while keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.
