How to Stay Safe in Beachwood's Summer Heat

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

It’s summer in Cleveland, Ohio – FINALLY! And that means we want to be outside, soaking up the sun as much as possible before we blink and it’s winter again!

With longer days, we can expect hotter temperatures as well, and that can get dangerous if you are not paying close attention. Here are some helpful tips to keep yourself and loved ones safe this summer:

• NEVER leave a child or pet inside a hot car. Even with the windows cracked, temperatures can get well above 120 degrees inside the vehicle when the outdoor temperature is only 75 degrees.
• Drink a LOT of water! You must stay hydrated and avoid drinks with caffeine and alcohol because those can quickly dehydrate you.
• Try wearing light colored and loose-fitting clothing that will allow your skin to “breathe”. Dark colors can absorb sunlight and make you feel much hotter.
• Beware of the hottest part of the day which is typically from 3 pm to 5 pm when the sun’s rays reach the earth the strongest. Try to take frequent breaks from outdoor activities during those times.
• If you must work outdoors, make sure you are not alone. It is always better to have a buddy with you to remind one another to take breaks and hydrate in the shade.
• Check on neighbors, friends, and relatives who live alone and may not have air conditioning. Make sure they are drinking plenty of fluids and staying as cool as possible
• If someone does not have air conditioning in their Newburgh Heights home, encourage them to seek out relief during the hottest part of the day in places like the library, movie theater, mall, etc.

Heat Exhaustion is real and can be dangerous! If someone is showing symptoms of heat exhaustion such as cool, damp, pale or flushed skin, sweating heavily, headache, nausea, dizziness, physical weakness, etc. it is important to move them to a cooler place (your Mayfield Heights home) right away and work on getting them cooler as quickly as possible. Use a fan, remove heavy clothing, apply cool, wet towels to the skin, give small amounts of cool water to drink, and monitor them closely. If the person worsens in any way, call 9-1-1 right away.

Remember – the summer is supposed to be fun in the sun! Keep yourself and everyone around safe by staying aware and knowing the signs of something dangerous. Have a great summer, and call SERVPRO of Beachwood and Cleveland Northeast 216-464-4498. We’re here to help!