Grab the Abberly Place RSS FeedThe combination of high temperatures and high humidity will cause heat indexes to soar, making it feel 105 degrees or hotter in Raleigh especially tomorrow and Friday.
If you live in an apartment in Raleigh, NC, be aware of your neighbors, and take an extra dip in the pool to stay cool. Take caution while outdoors to avoid heat illnesses.
A common sense approach to the heat can reduce heat-related problems, especially for the elderly, the very young and people with respiratory ailments. These folks are more susceptible to the effects of high temperatures.
Here are some tips to follow during hot, humid weather:
- Slow down, avoid strenuous activity. Do not try to do too much on a hot day.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Protect your face with a wide-brimmed hat.
- Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty.
- Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
- Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals. Avoid high protein foods that increase metabolic heat.
- Stay indoors as much as possible.
- If you do not have air conditioning, stay on the lowest floor, out of the sun. Electric fans do not cool the air, but they do help evaporate perspiration, which cools your body.
- Go to a place where you can get relief from the heat, such as air conditioned stores, libraries, theaters and other community facilities that may offer refuge during the warmest times of the day.
- Check with your community for information about possible local "cooling centers."
- Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80%.
- Avoid too much sunshine. Sunburn slows the skin’s ability to cool itself. If you are outside, use sunscreen lotion with a high SPF.
- Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.
- Check on family, friends and neighbors.
