STAYING COOL INSIDE

In homes without air conditioning, heat builds indoors over the course of a few days. It may stay hotter inside than outside overnight. Without air conditioning, the longer the heat lasts, the more dangerous it becomes.

Take the following steps to keep yourself and members of your household safe:

·   If you have air conditioning, turn it on. It does not need to be going full strength to help you stay safe

·   If you have air conditioning, and vulnerable friends and family do not, bring them to your home

·   If you do not have air conditioning, move to your pre-identified alternate location with air conditioning or cooler spaces

·   Sleep in the coolest part of the residence. Outdoor temperatures are usually lower than indoor temperatures overnight, so consider sleeping outside if you can safely do so

·   Sleep with a wet sheet or in a wet shirt

·   Take cool baths or showers to draw heat from your body

·   Drink plenty of water, regardless of whether you feel thirsty. Be aware that sugary or alcoholic drinks cause dehydration

·   If you are taking medication or have a health condition, ask your doctor or pharmacist if it increases your health risk in the heat and follow their recommendation

·   If your doctor limits the amount you drink, or has you on water pills, ask how much you should drink while the weather is h