Cool Tips to Beat the Heat Wave!

Let there be no doubt that summer has arrived!

The region nearly hit a record high temperature Wednesday and temperatures are expected to stay in the low 90s Thursday.

That means staying cool will be a priority for anyone working outdoors or without air conditioning.

The West Penn Allegheny Health System offered a few tips for people to beat the heat inside and outside.

• Pull down blinds or use other deflectors on windows to keep the heat out. If you don’t have air conditioning, open windows only on the coolest part of the house and use fans to keep the air circulating. Spend as much time indoors as possible, which could be the mall, library or community cooling center, if you don’t have air conditioning.

• Avoid exercising during the hottest times of the day and take plenty of rest breaks. Wear light-colored and breathable clothes.

• Eat light, limit alcohol consumption and drink plenty of water.

• Do not over-exert yourself if working outdoors and make sure to take breaks away from the heat. Even young people or healthy individuals who are overexposed to hot temperatures can suffer from heat exhaustion.

• Don’t forget the sunscreen if you’re outdoors for an extended period. Sunburn hampers your body in releasing excess heat.

• Be alert to the signs of heat exhaustion, which include heavy sweating, weakness, cold or clammy skin, a weak pulse, fainting and vomiting. Apply cool, wet cloths, take sips of cool water and seek medical attention immediately if vomiting occurs.

• Signs of heat stroke include body temperature of 105 degrees or above, hot, red or dry skin, rapid or weak pulse, shallow or rapid breathing and lack of sweat. Call 911 immediately and cool the victim as best you can with a cool bath or sponge, fan or air conditioner.

How do you cool off in the hot weather? Share your warm weather tips in the comment section below or upload photos or video that show off how you beat the heat.