Preventing heat illness with these simple tips

Heat-related illness can be a large issue, especially in dry and arid climates. Even in climates where heat isn’t as prevalent, residents can still have heat-related issues such as heat exhaustion or dehydration. In fact, anywhere hot temperatures may creep up to severely uncomfortable levels, there’s caution to be had over maintaining a healthy body temperature.

Want to avoid having issues with a hot environment? Try these tips to keep the heat exhaustion at bay:

Drink plenty of water

Staying hydrated is a great way to maintain a normal body temperature during times of extreme heat. Adding an extra glass of water or so to your current hydration regimen will help account for the excess fluid you lose as your body sweats.

Stay out of the sun

Another considerable tip is to stay out of the sun, especially when it’s highest in the sky. If you need to go outside during a heat wave, try morning and evening hours when the sun hasn’t quite reached its peak.

Try remaining indoors where air conditioning and air circulation are present. You may also opt for more insulation for your home or heat blocking accents like blackout curtains and advanced weather stripping.

Take a cool shower

If you feel yourself getting too warm or notice signs of heat stress such as cramps, excessive dryness or feeling faint, go inside and rest first. Hydrate while doing so. When the symptoms pass, take a cool shower.

By keeping the shower levels below your normal body temperature, you’ll help bring an already spiked core temperature down to manageable and healthy levels. It may also help save a little extra money if you’d like to keep your air conditioning unit(s) at a certain temperature. If you get too warm, just hop in a cool shower and refresh

Watch the heat index

One hefty preventative measure for staying away from heat illness is to monitor the heat index in your area, especially if your region is experiencing an extreme heat event.

Many weather apps designed for smart devices have a heat index attached to them. They may also have active warning and weather notices that can help keep you safe during warmer weather.

These are just a few ways to avoid heat-related illnesses during times of excessively high temperatures. For those currently in or relocating to a hotter climate, be sure to keep your home’s insulation, HVAC or air conditioning units and home accessories in mind to help combat extreme temperatures.