Avoiding Indoor Heat Stroke Published on June 18, 2016 Summer is a glorious time of year. It’s a time for exoctic vacations, deck parties, and evenings at the lake. There are also days when it’s best to escape the summer heat by staying inside. It can also be a hazardous time if you don’t take the right precautions to properly prepare your home to accommodate the extreme outdoor temperatures of this time of year. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious conditions ‘that can occur when the body becomes overheated, and it can occur anywhere, outside or in your home. A heat stroke needs emergency medical aid and, if if not taken care of immediately, may cause damage to your kidneys, heart, brain, and muscles, and in extreme cases a heat stroke may be fatal. So remember Safety First, both inside and outside your home. Find out how you can keep your loved ones safe from heat ailments this summer. Understand the symptoms You can be diligent but things can still happen. Understand the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat-related sicknesses: nausea, feeling faint, headache, rapid heartbeat, pain in your chest, breathing problems, and more. If you are outdoors and show any of these symptoms, find air-conditioned shelter straightaway. If you are not feeling better within 30 minutes or are having breathing problems, loss of consciousness, or pain in your chest, call your doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital. Have your air conditioning system checked immediately Proactive service your home’s air conditioner will help avoid a failure on the high temperature summer days, when your air conditioner is operating at top capacity 24/7 for weeks and months. During a proactive maintenance call, an expert air conditioning technician can usually avert an emergency by finding problems and replacing parts before they give out, and cleaning and tuning the air conditioner so it is ready to keep you cool all summer when its needed the most. Dress lighter Wear loose, lightweight fabric, especially when you’re going outside. Don’t wear dark shades, particularly black fabrics, since dark colors hold heat. The color white reflects the sun and helps keep you cooler. It also helps to purchase a wide-brimmed or gardening hat to avoid the sun on your face, and avoid layering clothing. Drink Up Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids, such as water or juice. Just because you are not thirsty doesn’t mean your body isn’t in need of hydration so try carrying a water bottle with you everywhere you go. When it’s exceptionally hot, especially during mid-day, stay away from drinks containing caffeine or alcohol since they can accelerate dehydration. To confirm your A/C system is in good health and is equipped to keep you cool in case of an emergency, call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We are available day or night so whenever you need us, we’re there for you.