Keeping Cool in Extreme Temperatures

What You Need to Know to Stay Safe When It’s Too Hot Outside

Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation slows and the body must work even harder to maintain a normal temperature. In a typical year, approximately 702 Americans lose their lives to the demands of extreme heat.

Most heat disorders occur because the victim has been overexposed to heat or has over exercised for their age and physical condition. Older adults, young children, and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to feel the negative effects of extreme heat. Conditions that can induce heat-related illnesses include stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality. Consequently, people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than those living in rural areas. Asphalt and concrete store heat longer and gradually release heat at night, which can produce higher nighttime temperatures.

A heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat and is often accompanied by high humidity. These conditions can be dangerous and even life-threatening for people who don't take the proper precautions. As such, consider this guidance to prepare for extreme heat.

Before Extreme Heat

To prepare for extreme heat, do the following:

• Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Install window air conditioners. Make sure they fit snugly and insulate them if necessary.
• Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
• Install temporary window deflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.
• Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80%.)
• Keep storm windows up all year.
• Listen to local weather forecasts to be aware of upcoming temperature changes.
• Get trained in first aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies.

During Extreme Heat

What should you do if the weather is extremely hot? In addition to the advice above, consider these tips:

• Listen for updates from the National Weather Service.
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
• Stay indoors as much as possible.
• Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• 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 evaporation rate of perspiration.
• Eat well-balanced meals. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine.
• Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages.
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and brightly-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Avoid dark colors, because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
• Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

WMW Insurance is committed to helping you and your loved ones stay safe when a heat wave strikes. For additional risk management guidance, contact us today.