Outdoors

Indoors

• Plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, early morning and late evening.  

• Drink plenty of water, even if not thirsty. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.  Caffeine dehydrates our bodies.    

• Always protect your eyes, face and skin.  Wear sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen.  Make sure to reapply sunscreen as recommended by manufacturer.    

• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.

• Take breaks in a cool place or under some shade.  

• NEVER leave kids or pets unattended in cars.  

• Build an emergency kit and prepare a family communications plan.  Below is a checklist for your kit:

â–¡ Three day supply of water for every person and pet in your household

â–¡  Three day supply of non-perishable foods and a can opener

â–¡  Battery powered radio to listen to weather forecasts

â–¡  Flashlight and extra batteries 

â–¡  Extra supply of medications

â–¡  Personal sanitation items (moist towelettes, plastics bags, etc.) 

• Check windows, doors, and air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.  Applying weather stripping to any gaps will keep cool air inside.    

• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. Did you know that outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80%?  

• Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.

• Be a buddy!  Know those in your neighborhood who are elderly, young, sick or overweight. They are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help.

• Get trained in first aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies.