Avoiding Indoor Heat Stroke

June 18, 2016

Summer is an incredible time of the year. It’s a time for exotic vacations, deck parties, and afternoons at the lake. There are also times when it’s best to escape 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 accommodate the extreme outside temperatures of this time of year. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are dangerous conditions ‘that can occur when the body becomes overheated, and it can take place anywhere, outside and inside. A heat stroke needs emergency medical care and, if if not taken care of immediately, may cause injury to your brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles, and in severe cases a heat stroke may be fatal. So remember Safety First, both inside and outside your home. Discover how you can keep yourself and your family safe from heat ailments this summer.

Know the indicators

You can be careful but sometimes that’s not enough. Know the indicators of heat exhaustion and heat-related illnesses: nausea, dizziness, headache, rapid heartbeat, pain in your chest, breathing problems, and more. If you are outdoors and display any of these symptoms, find air-conditioned shelter straightaway. If you are not feeling better within 30 minutes or are having breathing issues, loss of consciousness, or chest pains, call your doctor straightaway or go to the nearest emergency room.

Have your air conditioning system checked as soon as possible

Proactive maintenance of your home’s air conditioner will help prevent a breakdown on the hottest summer days, when your AC equipment is running at maximum capacity all day and night for weeks and months. During a standard maintenance visit, an expert A/C system technician can typically avoid an emergency by locating issues and replacing parts before they go out, and getting an ac tune up so it is in tip-top shape all summer when you want it most. 

Dress lighter

Wear loose, lightweight clothes, especially when you’re going to be outdoors. Don’t wear dark hues, specifically black clothes, since dark colors hold heat. The color white helps keep you cooler by reflecting the sun. It also helps to purchase a wide-brimmed or gardening hat to keep the sun off your face, and never layer clothing.

Stay Hydrated

Help keep you and your loved ones hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, including water or juice. Although you may not be thirsty, your body may still be in need of hydration so try bringing a water bottle with you at all times. When it’s exceptionally hot, especially during mid-day, steer clear of drinks that include alcohol or caffeine since they can contribute to dehydration.

To make sure your AC is in good health and is equipped to keep your family cool in case of an aircon repair emergency, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We are available 24/7/365 so whenever you need us, we’re there for you.