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Tips for staying cool

With this week's heat, safety officials remind residents to follow these tips to keep cool, especially those most vulnerable to heat related ailments. 

Tips for dealing with the heat:

• Slow down. Be your most physically active during the coolest part of the day, usually between 4-7 a.m. Pace yourself when engaging in physical activity.
• Drink more fluids than usual even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Water is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine; they make the heat's effects on your body worse.
• Call your physician if you feel you may be experiencing a heat-related illness.
• Stay indoors as much as possible. If air conditioning is not being used, stay on the lowest floor. Keep shades down and blinds closed, but windows slightly open.
• Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and wear a wide-brim hat if you need to be in the sun.
• Electric fans do not cool the air, but they do help sweat evaporate, which cools your body.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Keep pets cool and make sure water is available.
• Avoid using the oven.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's heat.
• Air out hot cars before getting into them.
• Never leave children or pets inside vehicles at any time, even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside a vehicle can reach lethal levels no matter what the weather is like.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increases metabolic heat.
• Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• If you take diuretics, ask your physician about a lower dosage during hot weather.
• If it is safe to do so, leave windows open at night. Open windows on two sides to create cross ventilation.
• Vacuum, clean or replace air filters regularly for maximum cooling efficiency.
• If affordable, install outdoor awnings or sunscreens.