Summer is an exciting time of the year. It’s a time for exotic vacations, backyard barbeques, and afternoons at the lake. There are also days 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 risky time if you don’t properly prepare your home to battle the extreme outside temperatures of this time of year. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are urgent conditions ‘that can take place when the body becomes overheated, and it can happen anywhere, outside and inside. A heat stroke needs emergency medical aid and, if treatment is not received, may cause injury to your kidneys, heart, brain, and muscles, and in intense cases a heat stroke could result in death. So think Safety First, both inside and outside your home. Discover how you can keep your loved ones safe from heat ailments this summer.
Recognize the signs
You can be diligent but things can still happen. Understand the signs of heat exhaustion and heat-related ailments: nausea, dizziness, headache, rapid heartbeat, pain in your chest, issues with breathing, and more. If you are outdoors and display any of these symptoms, go into air-conditioned shelter straightaway. If you do not feel better within 30 minutes or are having breathing issues, loss of consciousness, or chest pains, call your doctor straightaway or go to the nearest hospital.
Have your air conditioning system checked ASAP
Proactive maintenance of your home’s A/C equipment will help escape a breakdown on the hottest summer days, when your A/C system is functioning at full capacity all day and night for weeks and months. During an annual maintenance visit, an expert air conditioning technician can usually prevent an emergency by finding issues and replacing parts before they breakdown, and getting an ac tune up so it works like new again during the heat of summer when you want it most.
Dress lighter
Wear loose, lightweight fabric, particularly when you’re going to be outside. Don’t wear dark colors, particularly black clothes, since dark colors retain heat. The color white helps keep you cooler by reflecting the sun. It’s also good to purchase a wide-brimmed or gardening hat to avoid the sun on your face, and avoid layering clothing.
Drink Up
Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially 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 everywhere you go. During a heat wave or peak heat of the day, stay away from drinks with alcohol or caffeine because they can accelerate dehydration.
To make sure your A/C system is in good health and is ready to keep your family cool in case of an aircon repair emergency, call Stallion Heating Plumbing Air Conditioning. We are available day or night so whenever you need us, we’re there for you.