You may have heard of the term “Heat Dome” to describe the weather for this July with a warning that keeping cool could save your life. Portions of the United States including Central Kentucky are under a heat advisory as temperatures are soaring and humidity is extremely high. High pressure, according to meteorologists, act as a lid on temperatures forcing the hot air back to the surface. This is causing serious threat to some people in the area who may be susceptible to heat stroke. Here’s what you need to know about the heat:
Who Is At Risk?
People under the age of 4 or over the age of 65 are more prone to heat stroke. Heat Stroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate temperature. This condition occurs when the humidity is so high sweat cannot evaporate and the body cannot cool down. Weather conditions like this can cause heat stroke. It is also prevalent in people who have illness, obesity, poor circulation or heart disease. It is also seen with people who take certain medications or use excessive alcohol.
Other Types of Heat Related Illnesses
Heat Stroke is by far the worst heat related illness. It is followed by heat exhaustion, which occurs when someone is doing strenuous activity in the heat. You can also suffer from heat cramps and heat rash. If you notice someone having trouble because of heat you can help. If you think someone is having a heat stroke, you should call for emergency assistance and begin helping the person to lower their temperature immediately. Heat stroke causes the victim to have elevated temperature that can cause rapid heartbeat, confusion, unconsciousness, nausea and red, dry hot skin. You can lower the temperature by placing the person in a cool tub of water or showering them with water from a hose. Make sure they are in the shade and remove excess clothing that may be keeping the temperature in.
Keeping Cool This Summer
People living near Central Kentucky should take care to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. If you must be outside or you work in the heat, make sure you take breaks in the shade or air conditioning often. Drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages and don’t over work in the sun. If you have your air conditioner set on a programmable thermostat, don’t set it to higher temperature to keep it from running while you’re away. During this time of extreme heat, you will want to stay on top of the cooling of your house so that heat doesn’t become as big of a problem inside. Wear loose, lightweight, light colored clothing as much as possible. If you are outside, and begin to feel overheated, faint or lightheaded, go to the shade or indoors and rest. Drink cool juice or water and take a cold shower.
Using Your Air Conditioner
Unlike a fan that basically moves the air around, an air conditioner can remove the heat from the air and makes keeping cool easy. This is the only effective way to stay cool this summer. If you have not had your air conditioner serviced, now is a great time to do so. You should also ensure the filter is new and your equipment is working properly. If you have questions about your air conditioner or need to schedule service, call the experts at ADA Heating and Air. We can help make sure your HVAC equipment is working, as it should, so keeping cool this summer is not a problem.
