Summer is a glorious time of year. It’s a time for family vacations, backyard barbeques, and afternoons at the lake. There are also days when it’s best to dodge the summer heat by spending the day in an air conditioned home or building. It can also be a risky time if you don’t properly prepare your home to combat the extreme external temperatures of summer. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are dangerous conditions ‘that can occur when the body becomes overheated, and it can occur anywhere, outside or in your home. A heat stroke commands emergency medical attention and, if treatment is not received, may cause damage to your brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles, and in extreme cases a heat stroke could be deadly. So remember Safety First, both inside and outside your home. Learn how you can keep yourself and your family safe from overheating this summer.
Know the symptoms
You can take precautions but things can still go wrong. Recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat-related sicknesses: nausea, fainting, headache, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, breathing problems, and more. If you are outdoors and display any of these symptoms, seek air-conditioned shelter as soon as possible. If you do not feel better within 30 minutes or are having trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, or chest pains, call your doctor straightaway or go to the nearest hospital.
Have your A/C equipment checked as soon as possible
Proactive service your home’s A/C equipment will help avoid a breakdown on the hottest summer days, when your air conditioner is operating at maximum capacity all day and night for weeks and months. During a routine maintenance service, an expert AC technician can normally avert an emergency by locating issues and replacing parts before they give out, and getting an ac tune up so it is ready to keep you cool throughout the summer when its needed the most.
Dress lighter
Wear loose, lightweight fabric, especially when you’re going to be outside. Avoid wearing dark colors, specifically black clothing, since dark colors retain heat. The color white helps keep you cooler by reflecting the sun. It also helps to purchase a wide-brimmed or gardening hat to keep the sun off your face, and don’t layer clothing.
Hydrate
Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids, including water or juice. Even if you’re not thirsty, your body can still be in need of hydration so try carrying a water bottle with you everywhere you go. When it’s exceptionally hot, especially during mid-day, avoid drinks that include alcohol or caffeine since they can accelerate dehydration.
To make sure your AC is in good shape and is equipped to keep your home cool if there’s an aircon repair emergency, call Orangutan Home Services. We are available day or night so whenever you need us, we’re there for you.