How to Survive Extreme Heat
Arizona has some of the highest temperatures in the country. The dangers of extreme heat are very real. Extreme heat can be deadly if you don't respond properly to life-threatening conditions.
Prepare Your Home to Protect Your Family
There are steps you can take to make your home a better place to stay during the hottest temperature:- Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if needed.
- Check air conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
- Install temporary window reflectors for use between windows and
drapes, such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back
outside.
- Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in.
- Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes,
shades, awnings, or louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce
the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.
- Keep storm windows up all year.
During a Heat Emergency
Here are some guidelines of how to best handle extremely hot weather:- Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
- Stay on the lowest floor out of the sun if air conditioning is not
available.
- Spend the warmest part of the day in public buildings (libraries,
schools, malls, etc.).
- Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals and avoid salt tablets
(unless directed).
- Drink plenty of water. Consult your doctor if you have medical fluid
retention problems.
- Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages; they raise your body
temperature.
- Dress in baggy, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover
as much skin as possible.
- Protect your face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
- Check on family, friends, and neighbors who are alone and do not
have air conditioning.
- Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
- Avoid hard physical work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system and take frequent breaks.
