Responding to an Extreme Heat Advisory

Extreme heat is upon us in Texas.  Heat disorders are now a concern.  Heat disorders happen because people exert themselves too much in the heat.  Older adults, young kids, and those who are sick or overweight are particularly at risk.  Responding to an extreme heat advisory in the right way can make a difference to your health.

The urban jungle is the perfect environment for extreme heat.  Asphalt and concrete store heat and release it at night. This makes the nighttime temperature worse.  Also, the inert atmosphere and often poor air quality in the city also make things worse.  As a result, people in the city may be at greater risk.

Get Ready for Extreme Heat

There are a few things you can do before the heat hits to help beat the heat. To prepare for extreme heat, you should:

• Have your air conditioner serviced or install window air conditioners.
• Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
• Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.
• Weatherstrip leaky doors or windows.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes or shades.
• Know your neighbors who might need extra help – those who are elderly or sick.

Enduring Extreme Heat

When the heat hits, all we can do is safely wait it out.  The best way to stay safe is to drink water and stay inside when it’s really boiling.  You can also:

• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
• Stay indoors
• Limit sun exposure
• If you don’t have air conditioning or if it is struggling, stay on lower floors. Remember, heat rises.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Take in a movie or go to the library. Use the air conditioning in a public place if yours isn’t keeping up.
• Drink plenty of water and eat right.
• Wear loose fitting light colored clothing.
• Take care of your pets. Take them to a local shelter if they are at risk of overheating.

Cities, including Houston, may offer transportation to air conditioned public buildings.

Low-Cost Tips for Staying Cool

If your air conditioner still isn’t cutting it, you can try some low-cost cooling techniques using the products you already have at home.

• Eat some spicy food – It may sound silly, but the hotter your meal, the cooler your body. So load up on salsa and guacamole for summer snacks.
• Put your lotions, face creams, and sunscreen in the fridge – cool them down before you use them. The refreshing cool can reduce your internal temperature.
• Use a cool cloth or ice pack on your wrists to calm your pulse.
• Create your own AC by placing a bowl of ice in front of a box fan.

Heat kills by pushing the body’s temperature beyond its limits.  Extreme heat and humidity put the body to the test.  Take precautions to avoid extreme heat.