Keep Your Cool: How to Prepare for the Heat When Leaving Home

The D.C. area succumbed to a heatwave in previous weeks that left residents scurrying for cover.
You don’t have to avoid the world to keep your cool. There are measures everyone can take to stay safe beyond the homestead.

Bring Water

Heatstroke is a serious and life-threatening condition that results from being overheated and, oftentimes, dehydrated.

Have water with you everywhere you go, and stock up on refrigerated water. If you will be somewhere for a long duration, bring enough water to drink frequently or ensure there are facilities available at the location.

Wear Loose Clothing

Wear loose attire that is breathable. Cotton is the best.

Loose clothing allows the sweat we release to evaporate, which cools our core temperatures. When sweat is unable to evaporate, we overheat.

If you’re curious if that black tank top would go well with those shorts, consider again: thin, black material will only make you hotter. Instead, opt for brighter colors or thick material that won’t transmit heat to the skin.

Shield Car Windows

Never leave animals or children unattended in vehicles, and consider purchasing window shields if you park your car in the elements. The shields block the sun, allowing your vehicle to stay cooler.

Don’t forget to check that your antifreeze is full. Experiencing an overheated engine in 100-degree weather isn’t fun.

Minimize Physical Activity

Heat exhaustion and sunstroke are usually accompanied by prolonged exposure to the sun or physical activity in hot environments.

You may not be able to call off work but minimize physical exertion. Take regular breaks and stay hydrated.

Stay Focused When in the Water

It’s easy to assume you’re safe in the water, where the excessive heat can’t reach. However, drownings increase during hot periods because more individuals flock to the beaches, pools, and lakes. Further, heat exhaustion and sunstroke are harder to spot in the water.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

The heat affects our attention and mood, meaning we should be extra cautious during a heatwave.
“Pedestrian deaths increase in the summer due to a variety of factors,” states a representative from Rosenberg and Gluck LLP. Those factors include tourism, higher alcohol use, inexperienced drivers and higher numbers of pedestrians on the roads.

Yet poor driving performance due to the heat can also play a factor. Research shows heat stress has a profound impact on driving capabilities over long distances.

Know Symptoms

Finally, it’s important to know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heat exhaustion presents with excessive sweating, a weak but increased pulse, dizziness, and nausea. If heat exhaustion occurs, hydrate yourself and find a cool place to lower your body temperature.

Heatstroke symptoms include cramps, vomiting or nausea, weakness, headaches, irritability, and unconsciousness. Hyperthermia should be treated seriously, as prompt medical treatment can save someone’s life.

You Can Take the Heat

D.C. residents are anything but unadaptable. Prepare for the heat waves with plenty of water, knowledge, and planning.