Spending two hours a day in air conditioning during a heat wave can dramatically reduce your chances of developing a heat-related condition. Staying well-hydrated is key: Be sure to drink plenty of water and juice. Avoid taxing your body with too much activity. If you must exercise outside, be sure to work out in the early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler. Wear cool, comfortable, light-colored clothing. When outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen with a SPF of thirty or higher. During a heat wave, high demands for electricity can result in blackouts and brownouts. You and your family can prepare by printing and filling out the Duracell Preparedness Checklist and posting it in your home.
What is a heat wave? A heat wave is defined as a period of at least four days when average temperatures exceed the 85th percentile for summer temperatures in a specific area. Can heat waves be dangerous? Yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that hundreds of people die each year nationwide from excessive heat. Where and when do they hit? Heat waves can strike in any section of the United States. Most heat-related incidents and deaths happen in large cities when high daytime and nighttime temperatures, serious humidity and intense sunshine occur for several consecutive days.
We are much more susceptible to heat-related illnesses during a heat wave. According to the American Red Cross, here are the symptoms and treatments for the most common heat-related illnesses. HEAT CRAMPS - Heavy sweating and painful spasms usually in the leg or abdomen muscles. Get the person to a cooler place and have him or her rest in a comfortable position. Lightly stretch the affected muscle and replenish fluids. Drink a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. HEAT EXHAUSTION - Weakness and heavy sweating accompanied by cold, pale and clammy skin. Fainting and vomiting accompanies heat exhaustion. Drink a half glass of cool water every 15 minutes. HEATSTROKE/SUNSTROKE - High body temperature (106 degrees or higher) along with hot dry skin and a rapid and strong pulse. Unconsciousness is possible. Heat stroke is a life-threatening situation: Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number.