Top 5 ways to stay safe and cool during heat waves and power outages

August is The hottest time of the year for large parts of the United States. And with temperatures soaring in many states, thermal safety is as critical as ever. To help us better understand how to prepare for extreme heat and avoid heat-related illness, we spoke with doctors about the best ways to stay safe (and cool) when it’s sweltering.

Most heat-related injuries and deaths occur during the first days and weeks of heat waves. Why? Because our bodies are not yet used to the high temperature and humidity. So when it gets really hot, take baby steps in. “It is vital for individuals to gradually acclimate themselves to the heat and to follow appropriate safety procedures,” he says Dr. Yvonne Coffina primary care physician in Dallas.

What happens to our bodies when we feel overheated?

Consider stepping out of an air-conditioned building in extreme heat. Hot air hits your face and fills your lungs. After a minute, you feel the initial drops of sweat rolling down your temples. This is your body starting to acclimate to the unforgiving temperatures. At this point, adapting to heat and responding to your body’s signals becomes a matter of life and death. “Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause the body’s temperature regulation system to collapse, putting pressure on organs such as the kidneys, brain, and heart.” explains Dr. David Shustermanchief physician, urology, New York.

How to stay safe and cool during extreme heat and power outages

Drink – but not too fast. Stay hydrated with electrolytes

Our bodies have a natural mechanism to maintain a normal core temperature, normally ranging from 96.8°F to 99.5°F (36.0°C to 37.5°C). Sweating plays a vital role in reducing excess heat, but when we sweat profusely, our bodies experience extreme loss of water and sodium. Staying hydrated will be your first defense against the heat. Your body needs to sweat to stay cool, but just drinking cold water won’t be enough.

“Rapidly replenishing low water levels in the body with plain water can lead to water overload and lower sodium levels,” explains Dr. Coffin. Too low in sodium can lead to serious complications, including confusion, seizures, coma, and even death.” Therefore, our experts highly recommend gradual intake of electrolytes and water to maintain proper balance. Remember, we’re talking about extreme heat; extra precautions are necessary. Don’t overfill the bottle. Not only with water, but you need to add electrolytes to the mix.We can usually keep our body’s electrolytes in balance naturally through foods that contain calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and chloride.But when we need additional electrolytes to replace the loss caused by sweating, concentrated forms of electrolytes can easily be mixed with water via a special single-use formula. Electrolyte powder packaging or Soluble electrolyte tablets. If you or a loved one spend long periods in the heat where you exert energy and sweat profusely, it’s a good idea to carry single-use electrolyte packets around to help keep your body’s balance of water and sodium.

Use evaporative cooling towels

cooling towels It works by directing heat away from the body through the evaporation of sweat. Wet the towel with water (it doesn’t have to be cold!) and immediately start cooling. In some cases, the towel temperature is up to 30 degrees cooler than the surrounding air. Then you press the towel against your skin and it instantly draws the heat away from that area of ​​your body. says d.

Use portable fans, air conditioners, and cool-mist humidifiers

There are a large number of portable cooling devices available that will mimic the body’s natural cooling mechanism and provide fast relief. Hand held mini figure fans with misting Features is a great choice for on-the-go cooling during outdoor events, sports practices, and games. For those who go on camping trips or long outdoor activities, USB is supported Portable air conditioners may be suitable for your needs. a cool mist humidifier It can also help provide much needed relief from heat and dryness associated with high temperatures. And don’t worry about needing extra plugs and batteries, thanks Solar powered portable generators and backup battery banks.

Find shade or make your own

When spending a lot of time outdoors, finding a cool, shady spot should be top of mind. But what do you do when there is no shadow? You make it yourself. A great option, and something that is available to almost everyone, is an umbrella. Umbrellas provide instant personal shade and protect your skin from the scorching sun. If you want to up your parachute game, Misting umbrellas Great choice. All it takes are two batteries and a standard water bottle to turn the umbrella into a personal haven for outdoor splashes. For families where one umbrella just doesn’t fit the bill, Easy pop up tents Umbrellas are a great option. This pop-up wonder is lightweight, easy to set up and take down, and offers plenty of space for family and friends to gather underneath to stay cool and protected from the unforgiving heat and UV rays.

Those with a chronic illness need to take extra precautions

If you have a chronic illness, it may be best to completely limit outdoor activity until the heat subsides — at the very least, avoid the midday heat and sun. You should also check with your doctor to see if any medications you are taking will exacerbate your chances of heatstroke. “People with chronic illnesses need to be especially careful in extreme temperatures, as their condition can make them more vulnerable to the effects of high temperatures,” says Dr. Coffin. “In addition, people with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems are at increased risk of dehydration and heatstroke when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods,” she says.

Check around you, especially children and vulnerable adults

This heat is no joke and should be taken seriously. Your life really depends on it. This applies to all ages, so protect yourself and your family and look out for vulnerable individuals who live alone or may not have the mobility or financial means to take shelter in a cool place.