Heat waves can be more than just uncomfortable; they can quickly become dangerous if you don’t take the proper precautions. Knowing what to avoid can help protect you, your family, and your pets when temperatures reach extreme levels.
Push Yourself Too Hard Outdoors
Strenuous activities like exercising, mowing the lawn, or working outside during the hottest part of the day can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If you need to be active, schedule it for the early morning or evening, take frequent breaks, and drink plenty of water.
Drink Too Much Alcohol
Alcohol can speed up dehydration and make it harder for your body to regulate its temperature during extreme heat. If you choose to drink, balance every alcoholic beverage with water and avoid heavy drinking on especially hot days.
Wait Until You’re Thirsty to Drink Water
By the time you feel thirsty, your body may already be starting to dehydrate. Carry a reusable water bottle and sip water throughout the day, especially if you’re spending time outdoors or sweating heavily.
Leave Children or Pets in a Parked Car
Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can become deadly within minutes. Never leave children, pets, or vulnerable adults inside a car during a heat wave, even for a quick errand.
Wear Heavy or Dark Clothing
Dark colors absorb more sunlight, while heavy or tight-fitting clothes trap heat against your body. Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to help you stay cooler.
Avoid Air Conditioning Completely
Trying to “tough it out” without air conditioning can become dangerous during prolonged periods of extreme heat. If your home isn’t cool enough, spend time at a library, shopping center, cooling center, or another air-conditioned public building.
Related: 10 Ways to Stay Cool This Summer Without Running the Air Conditioner All Day
Forget to Check on Older Adults or Neighbors
Older adults and people with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable during heat waves because they may not notice dehydration or overheating as quickly. A simple phone call or visit can help make sure they have water, a cool place to stay, and any assistance they need.
Ignore Your Pets
Pets can become overheated just as quickly as people, especially if they’re outside or walking on hot pavement. Make sure they always have fresh water and shade, and avoid walks during the hottest hours of the day.
Related: 14 Dogs That Are Adorably Awkward (and Impossible Not to Love)
Ignore the Early Signs of Heat Illness
Headaches, dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps, heavy sweating, and unusual fatigue are all warning signs that your body is struggling with the heat. Move to a cooler place immediately, hydrate, and seek medical attention if symptoms become severe or don’t improve.
Skip Sunscreen and Other Sun Protection
A heat wave often means stronger UV exposure, increasing your risk of painful sunburn and long-term skin damage. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wear a hat and sunglasses, and look for shade whenever possible.
