The power of the sun
If there is one thing I have learned this summer, it is to have a very healthy respect for the power of the sun. Having grown up in Houston, Texas, I thought I was accustomed to hot summers.
However, this summer in Houston has been particularly brutal, with temperatures routinely hitting the high 90s and the heat index frequently soaring into the 100s. This intense heat wave motivated me to read up on preparing for hot weather conditions and how to take care of yourself in such a situation and here is what I have learned.
According to ready.gov, extreme heat can be described as a period of intense heat and humidity above 90 degrees Fahrenheit over at least two to three days. In these periods of extreme heat, the human body exerts itself to maintain a stable, normal temperature. This overexertion in already dangerous conditions can be fatal. The website also mentions that children, the elderly, and sick or overweight individuals tend to be at greatest risk for damage from extreme heat.
The first step in preparing for extreme heat is to know the symptoms of heat illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps. Heat stroke victims can experience dizziness; rapid pulse; skin that is red, hot, and dry but no sweat; and a body temperature above 103 degrees. Heat exhaustion victims can experience heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, rapid or weak pulse, dizziness, nausea, headache, fainting and vomiting. Heat cramps can be identified by muscle pains in the stomach, legs, or arms.
If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke, immediately call 9-1-1 or try to get the person to the nearest hospital and cool them with whatever methods are on hand. Surprisingly, you are not supposed to give the person suffering from heat stroke anything to drink as their bodies cannot handle liquids at that time.
If someone is experiencing signs of heat exhaustion or heat cramps, move to a cool location and cool them with sips of sports drinks or water. You should contact a health-care professional if symptoms worsen or persist for more than an hour.
To prepare for extreme heat, a few simple steps can be taken. Ironically, relying on a fan as your main cooling method can be dangerous, as the fan does not reduce body temperature and therefore does not prevent heat-associated illnesses.
Cooling areas such as libraries or shopping malls, however, can provide true cooling so make sure to know the locations of such places in your vicinity. Covering your windows with shades can also minimize in-house heat. Installing window air-conditioners with insulation around them or attic ventilators can also clear out hot air and keep your home cooled.
If you are outside in extreme heat, wear loose and lightweight clothing and try to find shade. Also, make sure to drink plenty of fluids and to avoid intense outdoor activities to stay hydrated. If possible, make sure to check on those around you and make sure they are OK.
I hope you enjoyed this article. Stay safe out there and enjoy the summer!
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Community Caregivers is a not-for-profit agency supported by community donations and grants from the Albany County Department for Aging, the New York State Department of Health and Office for the Aging, and the United States Administration on Aging.
Editor’s note: Arjun Wali, a Community Caregiver’s student volunteer, is in the Class of 2026 at Albany Medical College.