August is here, and that means the dog days of summer have arrived on Long Island. This time of year, Mother Nature turns up the heat, and that can make for an uncomfortable situation for many. Extreme heat not only can make you feel miserable – it can also make you sick. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are a number of factors that can affect the body’s ability to cool down when the temperatures soar, with senior citizens, small children, and those with medical concerns being among those at highest risk.
It’s important to take the necessary measures to keep cool in high temperatures, so you’re able to prevent heat-related illness from happening to you. Of course, keep strenuous activity to a minimum, limit your time outdoors, and make sure to wear natural fabrics and sunscreen. All of these measures will help avoid a possible life-threatening situation. But there are a few other steps you can take that can help you stay healthy when the weather is at its hottest.
The CDC offers some suggestions to help you stay healthy during a heat event.
The good news is, there are many measures you can take to stay safe when it’s hot and humid outside. Here are five suggestions from the CDC that not only help you stay cool – but also stay safe.
- Drink more water than you usually would. Keep the fluids flowing – don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Conversely, avoid alcohol, as it can contribute to dehydration. Plain water is best.
- Don’t use your stove or oven. It will only add to the heat that’s already in your home. Besides, it gives you a great excuse to order a pizza!
- Check on friends or neighbors – especially those who are older or are in ill health. Heat events can be especially difficult for them.
- Don’t rely on a fan to stay cool. Fans are great to help keep air circulating throughout your home, but they won’t cool the air.
- Stay in air conditioning as much as possible. The CDC indicates, “air conditioning is the number one way to protect yourself against heat-related illness or death.” If you don’t have air conditioning in your home, consider staying with family or friends who do, or seek an air-conditioned shelter in your area.
If you need help with your air conditioning, T.F. O’Brien can assist you.
At T.F. O’Brien, we can help with any air conditioning need you might have. We have extensive experience with the installation, maintenance and repair of all types of air conditioning systems, including ductless cooling and central air conditioning. Call us today at 516.488.1800, and we’ll be happy to help you. Prefer to contact us online? Click here to complete our short form, and a representative will reach out to you.