As evolved, thinking and feeling beings who top the food chain, humans often forget how vulnerable mammalian bodies are to the elements. A heatwave, for example, is a prolonged period of extreme heat that can prove deadly to an unprepared and unprotected person. If you’re concerned about the prospect of high temperatures in your region, here are some tips for avoiding danger and prioritizing your health during a heatwave.
1. Track Your Local Weather
It may seem obvious, but if you’ve ever found yourself out shopping in your flip-flops when a thunderstorm seemingly pops out of nowhere, then you realize how often you forget to check the weather app before you make simple everyday decisions. Especially in the summer months, it’s important to be aware of the predicted forecast, so you can make the appropriate plans to guard your safety when the temperature rises. When you’re aware of the possibilities, you can opt to work from home that day, change clothes or pack a cooler with extra water if you must venture out into the world.
2. Prepare Your Home for Extreme Weather
A basic emergency kit for your home should include provisions for harsh weather like extra water, non-perishable food items, and extra batteries. While you may have air conditioning, it’s also a good idea to apply additional heat protection to your home, such as temporary window deflectors, aluminum foil or blackout curtains to prevent excess light from conducting heat inside your walls. Restricting light flow and closing off unused rooms also allows you to conserve cool air in the event your power fails during a heatwave.
3. Prepare Yourself To Stay Indoors
Sometimes, you must humble yourself to the powers of nature and do what it takes to survive, which means staying home when the weather is extreme enough to harm you. Take the opportunity to catch up on missed episodes of your favorite Netflix series or pick up that dusty guitar in the back of your closet. Learn to be comfortable alone with yourself by starting a meditation practice or spend time checking in with your loved ones. If you’re struggling to relax during harsh weather, CBD oil may be able to help you with feelings of anxiety as you cope with the uncertainty of your surroundings.
4. Protect Your Pets
You’re not the only one susceptible to heat-related illnesses. If you have pets that spend any time outdoors, they are also in danger of suffering or death during a heatwave. Be a loving and responsible pet owner by bringing your animals inside, providing adequate water and monitoring them for signs of heat exhaustion. Heavy breathing, excessive drooling and a quick heart rate are signs of distress. Also, check paw pads for burns if your pet has been walking on asphalt. If your pet is overheating, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
5. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
In extremely hot and humid conditions, your body must work harder to maintain a healthy internal temperature and keep you alive. The symptoms of heat exhaustion in humans include:
- Excessive sweating
- Fatigue
- Dizziness and stumbling
- Chill bumps on the skin
- Nausea
- Muscle pain
By knowing what to look for, you’ll be able to recognize the signs that you are overheating and require immediate medical attention. If you or someone you know shows signs of distress that could lead to heatstroke, take steps to ensure adequate shelter and hydration as well as immediately contacting emergency services.
6. Wear Appropriate Clothing
Choosing how to dress in hot weather can be a complicated process because you want to remain cool and comfortable while also protecting delicate skin from harmful sun rays. While remaining indoors is optimal, if you must venture outside, be sure to apply at least 30 SPF to avoid sunburn. Wear lightweight clothing made of natural or moisture-wicking fibers and avoid dark colors that absorb sunlight.
A heatwave doesn’t have to ruin your week. With good knowledge and preparation, you can keep yourself and your family safe from dangerously hot weather.
