The New York Times – Rising temperatures can put many at risk for heat-related illnesses. Here’s guidance from experts on how to stay cool during the swelter.
Keep cool, even if you don’t have air conditioning
If you don’t have air conditioning, or if your AC has been on nonstop and you still feel hot, here are ways to cool your body and home:
- Spritz your skin with a mist of cool or room-temperature water.
- Block out the windows in your home with a blanket or a darker sheet during the day to keep the heat out.
- Keep windows open at night and run fans to circulate the air. [Use window fans blowing in on the north side of your house and out on the south side. – HEADLINE HEALTH.]
- Wipe your forehead with a cool cloth.
- Avoid strenuous exercise.
- Put ice cubes in your water bottle.
- If you must be outdoors, drink a slushie or douse your head in cold water. Cold showers can also help.
- Avoid using your stove or oven if possible.
Watch for signs of heat exhaustion
Symptoms include heavy sweating; cold, pale and clammy skin; a fast, weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; fatigue; dizziness; or headaches and fainting.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, sip water, move to a cooler location, loosen your clothes, or take a cool bath or place cool, wet cloths on your body.
Seek medical attention immediately if you vomit or if your symptoms worsen or last longer than an hour.
Recognize the signs of heat stroke
Symptoms include a body temperature of 103°F or higher; hot, red, dry or damp skin; a fast and strong pulse; a headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion and passing out.
If someone is experiencing these symptoms, call 911 immediately, and move the person into the shade or a cooler area; use cool cloths or a cool bath to lower their body temperature. Do not give them anything to drink …
