Summer is an exciting time of the year. It’s a time for beach vacations, backyard barbeques, and afternoons at the lake. There are also days when it’s best to avoid the summer heat by staying inside. It can also be a dangerous time if you don’t properly prepare your home to accommodate the extreme outdoor temperatures of the season. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are urgent conditions ‘that can take place when the body becomes overheated, and it can happen anywhere, outside or in your home. A heat stroke commands emergency medical aid and, if treatment is not received, may cause harm to your kidneys, heart, brain, and muscles, and in severe cases a heat stroke may be fatal. So think Safety First, both inside and outside your home. Learn how you can keep yourself and your family safe from overheating this summer.
Recognize the signs
You can be diligent but things can still go wrong. Understand the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat-related conditions: nausea, feeling faint, headache, rapid heartbeat, pain radiating in your chest, issues with breathing, and more. If you are outdoors and display any of these symptoms, seek air-conditioned shelter straightaway. If you are not feeling better within 30 minutes or are having breathing issues, loss of consciousness, or chest pains, call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.
Have your home’s AC checked as soon as possible
Proactively maintaining your home’s AC will help avoid a malfunction on the high temperature summer days, when your AC equipment is operating at full capacity around the clock for weeks and months. During a routine maintenance call, an expert AC technician can normally avoid an emergency by discovering issues and replacing parts before they give out, and cleaning and tuning the AC so it is in tip-top shape all summer when you want it most.
Dress lighter
Wear loose, lightweight clothing, particularly when you’re going to be outside. Don’t wear dark colors, specifically black fabrics, since dark colors retain heat. The color white helps keep you cooler by reflecting the sun. It’s also a great idea to purchase a wide-brimmed or gardening hat to keep the sun off your face, and avoid layering clothing.
Stay Hydrated
Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids, especially water or juice. Just because you are not thirsty doesn’t mean your body isn’t in need of hydration so try bringing a water bottle with you everywhere you go. When heat waves come in or it’s the middle of the day, stay away from drinks containing caffeine or alcohol since they can add to dehydration.
To confirm your air conditioner is in good shape and is prepared to keep you cool if there’s an emergency, call Niagara Home Services by Enercare. We are available around the clock so whenever you need us, we are ready for you.