Summer is an incredible time of the year. It’s a time for beach vacations, backyard barbeques, and afternoons at the lake. There are also instances when it’s best to avoid the summer heat by spending the day in an air conditioned home or building. It can also be a hazardous time if you don’t properly prepare your home to combat the extreme external temperatures of the season. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are urgent conditions ‘caused by the body becoming overheated, and it can happen anywhere, outside or in your home. A heat stroke commands emergency medical treatment and, if treatment is not received, may cause harm to your kidneys, heart, brain, and muscles, and in severe cases a heat stroke could be deadly. So keep in mind Safety First, both outside and inside your house. Discover how you can keep your loved ones safe from heat ailments this summer.
Recognize the symptoms
You can be careful but things can still go wrong. Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat-related ailments: nausea, dizziness, headache, rapid heartbeat, pain in your chest, breathing problems, and more. If you are outdoors and exhibit any of these symptoms, find air-conditioned shelter immediately. If you do not feel better within 30 minutes or are having trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, or any chest pain, call your doctor straightaway or go to the nearest emergency room.
Have your A/C equipment checked immediately
Proactively servicing your home’s air conditioner will help escape a breakdown on the hottest summer days, when your AC equipment is operating at maximum capacity around the clock for weeks and months. During an annual maintenance service, an expert air conditioning technician can typically prevent an emergency by discovering issues and replacing parts before they breakdown, and cleaning and tuning the AC so it is ready to keep you cool throughout the summer when its needed the most.
Dress lighter
Wear loose, lightweight fabric, specifically when you’re going to be outside. Stay away from dark hues, specifically black clothes, since dark colors retain heat. The color white reflects the sun and helps keep you cooler. It’s also good to wear a wide-brimmed or gardening hat to avoid the sun on your face, and never layer clothing.
Drink Up
Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, including water or juice. Even if you’re not thirsty, your body can still be in need of hydration so try carrying a water bottle with you everywhere you go. During a heat wave or peak heat of the day, stay away from drinks that include alcohol or caffeine since they can contribute to dehydration.
To confirm your air conditioner is in good shape and is ready to keep you cool if there’s an emergency, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We are available 24/7/365 so whenever you need us, we are here for you.