The St. Louis area is no stranger to brutally hot summers. But there are times when the heat reaches extreme limits. There is a heat advisory this week for the St. Louis Metro Area. This means excessive heat that can be life threatening.
Sadly, we hear about heat-related deaths and accidents during times like these. But these incidents don’t have to be a reality in our communities.
Follow these tips to keep your family safe:
Know the Symptoms
With the weather this hot, it is easy for the heat to creep up on you. The symptoms for heat stroke (also known as sunstroke) include:
- Headache
- Dizziness or feeling light-headed
- Not sweating despite the heat
- Fast Heartbeat
- Feeling sick to your stomach
- Cramps or muscle weakness
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, you should stop what you’re doing and get inside an air conditioned area and drink plenty of cold water. If symptoms persist or they are severe, call 911 immediately.
Stay Smart When You’re Outside
While the kids are out for summer and there are plenty of vacation days, don’t schedule too many outside activities. If you do go outside, wear loose fitting clothing in a light color. If you plan to workout outside, do it early in the morning or in the evening when the heat isn’t at its worse. Keep water bottles in the freezer the night before so you can grab and go when your day begins. Drink plenty of water when you’re outside, and take frequent breaks inside.
Let the Electronics Chill
While you should keep your A/C running, you should let your other appliances and electronics rest. You should avoid using your stove, and opt to grill outside instead since cooking inside will raise your home’s temperature. You should also avoid doing laundry or using too many of your other appliances since they generate heat as well.
Make Sure Your A/C is Working Properly
If your A/C is on the older side and you’re not sure if it can survive another summer, it is best to schedule your repair asap. If the air conditioning unit is broken beyond reasonable repair, get a free quote on replacement.
There are programs out there that provide incentives to replace your old air conditioner. Programs like the Ameren Illinois can help your family pay for cost of a new, energy efficient unit.
Keep Tabs on Friends and Family
Don’t let the brutal St. Louis heat endanger you and your family. Don’t forget to check up on elderly neighbors and keep your pets inside too!
Energy Stars Heating & Cooling Co can provide all of your air conditioning needs to keep your family cool and safe during this dangerous heat. Call us at 618-477-8337 or send us a message to schedule our professional A/C services today.