The Delaware Division of Public Health is advising everyone on how to stay cool during a heatwave. Though the heat has eased up a bit, it appears by early next week it will go back up. Hot days are in our future again and it’s important to take caution and hydrate.

Hot Days Hotter Nights

Summer temps have been some of the hottest we’ve seen over the last couple of years. It has eased up a bit and we’ve been lucky enough to have some cooler nights. But that may not last too long. The 10-day forecast is showing that the temps are set to go right back up early next week.

If we know anything, it’s that the weather forecast is a bit unreliable so it’s very likely that we could end up with another heatwave before summer is officially over.

How To Stay Cool During A Heatwave

So what are the best precautions to take to make sure you’re staying safe in these high temps?

There are a few different things you can do ahead of time, before it gets too hot. There are also a few things you can do if you find yourself smack in the middle of a heatwave without much warning.

If you’re not the kind of person who checks the weather every day before they head out of the house, some of these may be really helpful for you.

Take a look at some of the ways you can protect your health and stay cool during a heatwave.\

If you’re looking for fun things to do when it’s hot out, we created a list of activities in your area.

For more information on how to stay cool during a heatwave, visit the CDC website at cdc.gov/extremeheat/warning.html. 

• Avoid Direct Sunlight

  This seems like an obvious recommendation but a lot of folks don’t realize just how different the change in temperature can be in the shade.

  If you’re stuck outside, try hanging out under a tree or the awning of a building close by.

  If your home does not have air conditioning, spend some time in an air-conditioned public facility, such as a library or mall.

• Stay Hydrated

  You’d be surprised how many people think that drinking ice cold water on a hot day is a good idea. You don’t want to send your system into a shock.

  Try room temp or slightly chilled water. Even add a tiny bit of salt to your water to help retain the H20.

  Especially if you’ve been sweating a lot, you need to replace the electrolytes in your body.

  Gatorade is also a great idea if you’re especially sweaty and spending a lot of time outside.

  However, don’t overdrink. You should only consume enough water to quench your thirst. It is possible to develop hyponatremia, a potentially fatal loss of sodium levels, when you drink too much water.

   

• Apply Sunscreen

  It’s a good rule of thumb to apply a sunscreen on any day where you will be outside for prolonged periods of time.

  Even if the weather is partly cloudy, it can be deceiving. When the sun is hiding it can still harm your skin.

  Grab yourself a daily lotion that comes with SPF in it, this way it just becomes part of your routine.

• Never Leave Anyone In A Hot Car

  Children, pets and elderly or disabled should never be left in a car that is not running with an air conditioner, regardless of having windows open.

  Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke and other serious health complications. Heat exhaustion can cause a variety of symptoms, including excessive sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache and muscle cramps. If left untreated, symptoms can progress to more severe conditions such as confusion, trouble breathing and even loss of consciousness. Although rare, heat stroke is a true medical emergency that should be addressed by getting out of the sun and seeking immediate medical attention.  

• If It's Too Hot For You, It's Too Hot For Your Pet

  If you can’t walk on the asphalt barefoot, or stand to touch it with the backside of your hand, then your puppies pawpads can’t handle it either.

  Take caution when walking your dogs on hot days. The best times to do this are early morning and late evening before or after the sun has had a chance to hit the pavement.

  No matter how bored you think your pet may be, they are much better off in the house for a few days, than forced to go outside in the extreme heat and possible end up injured or sick.

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