Staying cool on a hot summer day can be a challenge. But add in triple-digit temps and high humidity and it can be downright unbearable. In fact, extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion, heat-stroke, and other related illnesses.

Protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of extreme heat with these safety tips.

1. Stay Hydrated

The body naturally cools itself through sweat. When the body doesn’t have enough water to produce sweat, heat-related illnesses can set in. Sip water throughout the day – not just when you’re thirsty – to prevent dehydration.

2. Stay Indoors

Stay inside an air-conditioned space during the hottest time of day. If you don’t have AC in your home, head to a public space like a shopping mall or library. Consider purchasing and installing a portable or window AC unit. Or place a bowl of ice in front of a fan for an instant DIY AC.

3. Limit Outdoor Activity

Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or later evening hours when temperatures tend to be lower. Being outside during the hottest time of day can cause body temperature to rise to unhealthy levels, leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke even without physical exertion.

4. Dress Light

Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing during hot days. Light colors reflect heat while loosing clothing allows the body to cool itself effectively.

5. Eat Light

The body has to work harder to digest heavy, fatty foods. Help it out by choosing meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water.

6. Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol has a diuretic effect that makes the body pass more urine than the volume of alcohol ingested. Plus, it changes the way the kidneys function, and blocks an antidiuretic hormone that signals the body to reabsorb water.

7. Avoid Caffeine and Sugar

In addition to alcohol, stay away from caffeinated and sugary drinks during a heatwave. Caffeine can cause an increase in urine frequency while sugary drinks can stop the body from absorbing water. Water is your best bet for avoiding dehydration.

8. Replace electrolytes.

When we sweat, our bodies lose electrolytes—essential minerals like sodium and potassium. It’s important to replenish these electrolytes, but water alone won’t cut it. If you’re performing any strenuous activity that produces a lot of sweat, choose low-sugar sports drinks that contain sodium, potassium, magnesium, and other nutrients that replenish the body’s electrolytes.

9. Take a Cool Shower

Cool water brings body temperature down which results in a cooling effect. Doing so before bed can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly, especially on a hot summer night.

Of course, one of the best ways to stay cool on a scorching summer day is in the comfort of your own air-conditioned home. But what if your central or ductless AC system can’t keep up, or worse – decides to quit on the hottest day of the year? That’s precisely why we offer 24/7 emergency repair service. Contact C&D today or anytime for the prompt, professional service your deserve.