Extreme heat is increasingly common worldwide, leading to longer and more frequent heat waves. Rising temperatures can pose risks for heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Here, experts provide guidance on staying cool during intense heat, even without air conditioning.
Keep Cool Without Air Conditioning
Staying cool and hydrated are crucial steps to prevent discomfort and illness in high temperatures. If air conditioning is not available, or if continuous use fails to keep you cool, consider these methods to cool yourself and your living space:
- Spritz your skin with a mist of cool or room-temperature water.
- Block windows, especially those receiving afternoon sun, with a blanket or dark sheet during the day to reduce heat intake.
- Keep windows open at night and use fans to improve air circulation.
- Use a cool cloth to wipe your forehead.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor exercise if possible.
- Add ice cubes to your water bottle, especially when outdoors.
- Minimize stove or oven usage.
Watch for Signs of Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion can manifest with several symptoms in adults, including heavy sweating; cold, pale, and clammy skin; a fast, weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; fatigue; dizziness; headaches; and fainting. To address these symptoms, sip water, move to a cooler environment, loosen clothing, or take a cool bath or apply cool wet cloths to your body. Seek immediate medical help if vomiting occurs or if symptoms worsen or persist beyond an hour.
Recognize the Signs of Heat Stroke
Heat stroke symptoms include a high body temperature (103°F or higher); hot, red, dry, or damp skin; a fast, strong pulse; headaches; dizziness; nausea; and fainting. Individuals with heat-related illness may become uncoordinated or confused. Engage them in conversation to identify confusion-related symptoms.
If someone shows these signs, call 911 immediately. Move the person to shade or a cooler area if possible and use cool cloths or a bath to lower body temperature.
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