As summer reaches its peak, the scorching heat can be unbearable, especially if your air conditioning unit breaks down. Waiting for AC repairs during a heatwave can be both uncomfortable and dangerous. However, with a few practical steps, you can stay safe and relatively cool until help arrives.
Here are some essential health and safety tips to help you navigate this challenging time before we show up for AC repair in Conway, AR.
Stay Hydrated
The most critical tip during a heatwave is to stay hydrated. Dehydration can occur quickly in extreme heat, leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid beverages that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks. Keeping a water bottle with you at all times is a simple yet effective way to ensure you’re drinking enough fluids.
Use Fans Strategically
While fans do not cool the air, they can help circulate it, making it feel cooler on your skin. Position fans to blow air across your body, or place a bowl of ice in front of the fan to create a cooling breeze. Ceiling fans should be set to rotate counterclockwise to push cooler air down. Additionally, using box fans in windows can help draw in cooler air from outside during the evening and night when temperatures drop.
Create a Cool Space
Identify the coolest area in your home and spend most of your time there. This could be a basement, a room with fewer windows, or a shaded area. Close off unoccupied rooms to prevent cool air from escaping and keep blinds or curtains drawn to block out the sun. Using light-colored or reflective shades can further reduce heat absorption.
Take Cool Showers and Baths
A quick way to lower your body temperature is by taking cool showers or baths. If that’s not an option, dampen a washcloth with cold water and place it on your wrists, neck, and forehead. These areas are pulse points, and cooling them can help reduce your overall body temperature more effectively.
Wear Light and Breathable Clothing
Choosing the right clothing can make a significant difference in how you feel during a heatwave. Opt for loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton, which allow your skin to breathe and sweat to evaporate. Dark colors and synthetic fabrics tend to trap heat, making you feel hotter.
Limit Physical Activity
During extreme heat, it’s essential to limit strenuous activities that can raise your body temperature. If you need to exercise, try to do so during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Always listen to your body and stop if you feel dizzy, weak, or nauseous.
Seek Air-Conditioned Public Spaces
If the heat becomes unbearable, seek out air-conditioned public spaces such as shopping malls, libraries, or community centers. Spending a few hours in a cool environment can significantly reduce your risk of heat-related illnesses. Make sure to check the opening hours of these places and plan your visit accordingly.
Schedule an appointment with the experts at Dewees HVAC to get your AC back up and running again.