• Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.

• Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature or prevent heat-related illnesses. 

• Identify places in your community where you can go to get cool such as libraries and shopping malls or contact your local health department to find a cooling center in your area.

• Cover windows with drapes or shades.

• Weather-strip doors and windows.

• Use window reflectors specifically designed to reflect heat back outside.

• Add insulation to keep the heat out.

• Use a powered attic ventilator, or attic fan, to regulate the heat level of a building’s attic by clearing out hot air.

• Install window air conditioners and insulate around them.

• If you are unable to afford your cooling costs, weatherization or energy-related home repairs, contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for help.

• Never leave a child, adult, or animal alone inside a vehicle on a warm day. 

• Find places with air conditioning. Libraries, shopping malls, and community centers can provide a cool place to take a break from the heat. 

• If you’re outside, find shade. 

• Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face. Wear loose, lightweight, light colored clothing. 

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. 

• If you or someone you care for is on a special diet, ask a doctor what would be best. 

• Do not use electric fans when the temperature outside is more than 95 degrees. You could increase the risk of heat-related illness. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature. 

• Avoid high-energy activities. 

• Check yourself, family members, and neighbors for signs of heat-related illness.

Heat Cramps 

Signs: 

• Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms, or legs. 

Actions: 

• Go to a cooler location. 

• Remove excess clothing. 

• Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. 

• Get medical help if cramps last more than an hour. 

Heat Exhaustion 

Signs: 

• Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. 

Actions: 

• Go to an air-conditioned place and lie down. 

• Loosen or remove clothing. 

• Take a cool bath. 

• Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. 

• Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour. 

Heat Stroke 

Signs: 

• Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees) indicated by an oral thermometer; 

• red, hot, and dry skin with no sweat; 

• rapid, strong pulse; 

• dizziness; 

• confusion; and 

• unconsciousness. 

Actions: 

• Call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. 

• Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives.