Summer is a lovely season. It’s a time for family vacations, deck parties, and afternoons at the lake. There are also times when it’s best to escape the summer heat by spending the day in an air conditioned home or building. It can also be a dangerous time if you don’t properly prepare your home to combat the extreme external temperatures of summer. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are urgent conditions ‘caused by the body becoming overheated, and it can happen anywhere, outside or in your home. A heat stroke commands emergency medical care and, if if not taken care of immediately, may cause harm to your kidneys, heart, brain, and muscles, and in intense cases a heat stroke could result in death. So remember Safety First, both inside and outside your home. Find out how you can keep yourself and your family safe from overheating this summer.
Recognize the signs
You can take precautions but sometimes that’s not enough. Understand the signs of heat exhaustion and heat-related conditions: nausea, feeling faint, headache, rapid heartbeat, pain radiating in your chest, breathing problems, and more. If you are out of your home and display any of these symptoms, find air-conditioned shelter immediately. If you do not feel better within 30 minutes or are having breathing problems, loss of consciousness, or pain in your chest, call your doctor straightaway or go to the nearest hospital.
Have your air conditioning system checked as soon as possible
Proactive service your home’s air conditioner will help avoid a breakdown on the hottest summer days, when your AC equipment is operating at maximum capacity around the clock for weeks and months. During a proactive maintenance service, an expert A/C system technician can usually avert an emergency by finding problems and replacing parts before they breakdown, and getting an ac tune up so it is ready to keep you cool all summer when you want it most.
Dress lighter
Wear loose, lightweight fabric, especially when you’re going outdoors. Stay away from dark shades, especially black clothes, since dark colors absorb heat. The color white helps keep you cooler by reflecting the sun. It’s also good to invest in a wide-brimmed or gardening hat to keep the sun off your face, and never layer clothing.
Stay Hydrated
Help keep you and your loved ones hydrated by drinking lots of fluids, especially water or juice. Although you may not be thirsty, your body may still be in need of hydration so try carrying a water bottle with you everywhere you go. When heat waves come in or it’s the middle of the day, stay away from drinks containing caffeine or alcohol since they can accelerate dehydration.
To ensure your AC is in good health and is prepared to keep you cool in case of an aircon repair emergency, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We are available 24/7/365 so whenever you need us, we’re there for you.