Prepare for extreme heat!

Make sure you and your family are ready for extreme heat. Here are some quick tips.

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water. Limit caffeinated or alcoholic drinks.
• Cover any windows that face the sun with aluminum foil-covered cardboard. This is very effective in keeping out heat. Plain cardboard or dark fabrics will also help. Add extra coverings even if you have curtains.
• Fill extra space in your freezer with plastic jugs or water containers now so they can freeze before extreme heat hits. This will help keep the freezer cold if the power is out, and will help your freezer run more efficiently if it remains on. It will also provide you with cold packs if you need them to cool off.
• Check now for cooling centers, locations you can go to cool off during the hottest part of the day in your community. Call 211 for help finding a cooling center near you.
• Use a fan to move air in your home if you don’t have air conditioning. When the temperatures drop at night, open doors and windows to cool off the interior of the home before the sun comes up the next day. Keep as many lights and appliances turned off as possible.
• Prepare for power outages. Keep cell phones charged. Fill vehicles with gas. Prepare extra blankets or insulation to surround your freezer. If you have a well with an electric pump, prepare a water supply or a backup power system to ensure you can access your water.
• Have light, ready-to-eat foods ready for regular small meals and snacks.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors often, especially those who may live alone or who are isolated. Young children, pregnant people, older adults, and outdoor workers are especially vulnerable to heat. If you live with or are a member of these groups, take extra precautions if you must be outside. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
• Ensure household pets and livestock have plenty of water and a cool place to rest.
• Limit outdoor activities and rest indoors during the hottest parts of the day. If you exercise outdoors, try to go early in the morning while it is still cool.
• Always take extra drinking water and a sun hat when you leave the house.
• Consider making an extreme heat pack to keep in your vehicle that includes bottled water, instant ice packs, a reusable cooling cloth, sunscreen, electrolyte packets, snacks, and a lightweight sun shirt or umbrella. You never know when your car will break down or a traffic jam will occur.