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Heat Wave Alert: Essential Tips to Stay Cool and Safe
Safety & Prevention | Weather
By Nina Cutter
June 18, 2024 2 minute read

After a mild summer last year, Maine and New Hampshire are bracing for an intense heat wave this week. Here are some practical tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe.

Stay Hydrated

Drink at least 6-8 glasses of water. It’s best to avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks as they can be dehydrating. Electrolyte drinks are also a great choice —they replenish minerals that are lost through sweat.

Wear Light and Loose Clothing

Choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Loose-fitting clothes in light colors help reflect sunlight and keep your body temperature down.  Wide brimmed hats or caps are also a good idea.

Stay Indoors During Peak Hours

Avoid outdoor activities between the peak hours of 11 am and 4 pm. Enjoy indoor activities or visit air-conditioned places like malls, theaters, or museums. Some towns have cooling centers that you can go to as well.

Use Cooling Accessories

Handheld fans, cooling neck wraps, and spray bottles are great for providing quick relief. Taking cold showers or using cold compresses on your neck and pulse points can also help lower your body temperature effectively.

Keep Your Home Cool

Use shades, curtains, or blinds to block sunlight and insulate your home. Close doors to unused rooms to trap cool air. To reduce reliance on air conditioning, cook outside to avoid heating your home and open windows at night to let in cooler air. Unplug electronics when not in use and run appliances like dishwashers during cooler parts of the day. You can also experiment with fan placement to push hot air out or create a DIY air conditioner with a bowl of ice.

Recognizing and Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses

Even with all the tips above, heat-related illnesses can still occur. These include heat rash, heat fatigue, heat cramps, heat fainting, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Symptoms can range from discomfort and irritability to serious conditions like fainting and heat stroke. These require immediate medical attention.

Stay cool, comfortable, and healthy during the heat wave, and enjoy your summer!

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