Heat waves can be unbearable. With temperatures soaring, it’s crucial to take precautions to stay safe and comfortable. 

We understand how challenging it can be to keep your home cool and stay hydrated during extreme heat, so we’ve compiled a list of practical tips to help you navigate these sweltering conditions with ease.

Whether you’re a Doorstead tenant or searching for ways to beat the heat, these strategies will help you stay cool, healthy, and comfortable.

Here are some tips to help you survive the sweltering conditions:

Keep Your Home Cool

• Close Blinds and Curtains: Block out the sun’s rays by keeping your blinds or curtains closed during the day.
• Use Fans Wisely: Place fans strategically to circulate air. For a cooler effect, put a bowl of ice before a fan to create a makeshift air conditioner.
• Cool Your Bed: Use cooling bed linens, and consider placing a cold pack under your pillow to help you sleep comfortably.

Stay Hydrated

• Drink Water Regularly: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Avoid Dehydrating Drinks: Steer clear of alcoholic, caffeinated, and sugary beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.
• Eat Hydrating Foods: Consume fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges.

Dress for the Heat

• Choose the Right Clothing: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help your body stay cool.
• Wear Natural Fabrics: Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton and linen that can help keep you cooler than synthetic materials.

Seek Cooler Spaces

• Public Air-Conditioned Places: Visit libraries, malls, or cooling centers set up by local authorities.
• Plan Outings Strategically: Schedule your errands and outings during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.

Watch for Signs of Heat Illness

• Recognize Symptoms: Be aware of symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headaches, and muscle cramps, which could indicate heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
• Take Immediate Action: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe symptoms like confusion, rapid pulse, or unconsciousness.

Check on Vulnerable Neighbors

• Stay Connected: Check on elderly individuals, young children, and those with chronic medical conditions, as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
• Offer Assistance: Provide help or arrange for them to stay in cooler environments if needed.

Limit Strenuous Activities

• Avoid Peak Heat Hours: Avoid outdoor activities or strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
• Adjust Your Routine: If you must be outside, try to schedule your activities during the cooler morning or evening hours.

Pet Care During Heat Waves

Your pets also need special care to stay cool and comfortable during a heat wave. Here are some tips to ensure their well-being:

Keep Pets Hydrated

• Provide Plenty of Water: Ensure your pets have access to fresh, cool water at all times. Consider adding ice cubes to their water bowl.
• Hydrating Treats: Offer ice cubes or frozen pet-safe treats to help keep them hydrated and cool.

Create a Cool Environment

• Cool Sleeping Spots: Make sure your pets have a cool place to rest. Provide a cooling mat or let them lie on tile floors.
• Avoid Hot Surfaces: Keep pets off hot pavement or asphalt, as these can burn their paws and increase their body temperature.

Limit Outdoor Activities

• Walk During Cooler Times: Walk your pets early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower.
• Avoid Strenuous Exercise: Limit exercise during the hottest parts of the day to prevent overheating.

Watch for Signs of Heat Stress

• Recognize Symptoms: Look out for signs of heat stress in pets, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or difficulty breathing.
• Take Immediate Action: If your pet shows signs of heat stress, move them to a cooler area and offer water. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.

Additional Tips for Tenants:

Optimize Your Space

• Improve Ventilation: Keep interior doors open to promote airflow and use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove hot air.

DIY Cooling Solutions

• Cool Towels and Showers: To lower your body temperature, apply cool, damp towels to your neck or take cold showers.
• Create Shade: Use outdoor umbrellas, awnings, or temporary shade structures on balconies or patios to reduce heat exposure.

Smart Energy Use

• Unplug Electronics: Unplug electronics when not in use, as they can generate additional heat.
• Energy-Efficient Bulbs: Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs that produce less heat.

Remember, heat waves can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations. 

We know how tough and frustrating it can be to endure a heat wave, but with these tips, you can cool down your living space. Stay proactive, stay hydrated, and take advantage of all the resources available to you. At Doorstead, we care about your well-being and comfort, and we’re here to support you through every season.  By taking these precautions, you can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe and comfortable during even the most scorching summer days. Stay cool and stay safe!