10 Tips to Survive Heat and Drought

Heat and Drought are killers, and care should be take to protect those that are vulnerable,  This is especially true for the elderly and young children.

Here are 10 Tips to Survive Heat and Drought:

• First, install window air conditioners snugly, and insulate around them for a tighter fit.
• Next, install temporary reflectors, such as aluminum foil covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.  Shades, awnings and louvers can reduce heat entering the house by as much as 80%.
• Keeping storm windows up all year can keep heat out of a house in summer just as they keep cold out in winter.
• Stay indoors as much as possible. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
• Always drink plenty of water, and limit alcohol intake. Although beer and such seem to satisfy thirst, they actually dehydrate the body.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Lightweight, light-colored clothing that reflects heat and sunlight helps maintain normal body temperature. As much as possible, simply avoid too much sunshine.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes. A cool shower immediately after coming in from hot temperatures can result in hypothermia, particularly for the elderly and the very young.
• Vacuum air conditioner filters weekly during periods of high use.
• Watering the lawn and washing the car are wasteful in heat and drought. Re-use water whenever possible.
• Finally, place a large, solid object like a brick in the toilet’s flush tank to reduce its water usage