Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. In extreme heat and high humidity (which is when the air has moisture and feels sticky) the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature and keep the body comfortable. A heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat. And there is often high humidity.
Before:
- Build an emergency kit.
- Make a family communication plan.
- Keep shades closed on windows that get morning or afternoon suns.
During:
- Stay inside an air conditioned area as much as possible.
- Drink lots of waters. This is your body’s air conditioning!
- Wear loose fitting clothes in light colours. Dark clothes absorb sun rays.
- Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your face and head.
After:
- Don’t eat any food that was in the refrigerator if you were without power for more than a day.
- Humidity – The amount of water vapour in the air.
- Temperature – The measure of how hot or cold something is.