June 2023- Dealing with Extreme Heat

June 2023– Extreme Heat

Make sure your home is prepared for hot weather emergencies.

Week #1—Home Energy Evaluation

If your home is well insulated, it will stay cool much longer. Take the free ThermWise Home Evaluation or have it professionally done for $25.00.

Week #2—Home Energy Efficiency

Based on your home energy evaluation, improve the efficiency of your home as much as your budget allows.

• Increase insulation in walls and attic
• Replace weather strip around doors
• Cover windows with shades or drapes
• Install energy efficient windows
• Install attic vents to dispel heat

Week #3—Car Emergency Kit

Keep some emergency supplies in your car, just in case you get stuck away from home.  

• Keep gas tank half full
• Ball cap or wide brimmed hat, sunscreen
• Flashlight
• Water and food (hot-weather safe, like granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, etc.). Replace every few months.

Week #4—Extreme Heat Survival Guide

Stay Cool Inside:

• Close off unused rooms
• Keep the sun out with shades or drapes

Eat Right and Stay Hydrated:

• Cook outside to keep heat out of the house.
• Have plenty of stored water to maintain hydration

Sleep Cool:

• Sleep in the lowest level of the house with mattress on the floor to be a few degrees cooler
• Sleep on wet sheets or spray water on your bed to cool it off
• Open upper-level windows at night to let heat escape

Venturing Outside:

• Stay indoors or in the shade as much as possible
• Avoid overexertion—drink a cup of water every 15 minutes if you have to work outside

Help Others:

• Check on elderly and disabled neighbors to see how they are doing
• Listen to local radio and TV reports

Watch Out for Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke

Signs of heat exhaustion:

• muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting

Signs of heat stroke:

• An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F),
• Red, hot, and dry skin
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Nausea, confusion and unconsciousness

If you see these signs, get the person to a cooler location, elevate legs and feet, and loosen tight clothing. Have them rest and slowly drink a cool beverage, and spray or sponge with cool water. Get them medical attention if the person doesn’t improve after taking these measures.