Photo: Catrin Austin, Flickr Creative Commons

A heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat – 10 degrees or more above average – often coupled with high humidity. This results in a higher heat index, which is the temperature the body feels when the effects of heat and humidity are combined. In recent years, excessive heat has caused more deaths than any other weather event, including tornados or floods.

Extended periods of extreme heat and humidity can be very dangerous to your health. When humidity is high, it prevents the evaporation of sweat, forcing your body to work harder to stay cool and putting you at risk for heat-related illnesses. The Red Cross has a helpful guide on how to recognize and treat these illnesses on their site.

The best way to avoid the heat is to stay in an air-conditioned home. Studies show that spending just two hours per day in air conditioning can significantly reduce your risk of heat-related illnesses during a heat wave. If you want to add air conditioning to your home, or your air conditioning needs repair, call Gold Star, the #1 AC repair company in Delaware.

Tips on How to Beat the Heat

• Stay hydrated. If you are exerting yourself, drink a glass (8 oz) of water every hour, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks containing caffeine or alcohol: these substances act as diuretics, leading to dehydration.
• Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing. Dark colors will absorb heat.
• Avoid strenuous exercise. Don’t overly exert yourself, especially during the hottest part of the day (10am–3pm). If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and have someone check on you periodically.
• NEVER leave children or pets in vehicles. The temperature inside a closed vehicle can quickly reach over 120°, leading to death in a matter of minutes.
• Stay indoors and stay cool. Staying out of the sun is the best way to reduce your risk of heat-related illness. You can also take a cool shower or splash yourself with cool water to lower your body temperature.

The best tip is to listen to your body: if your heart is pounding and you’re short of breath, get to a cooler environment immediately, rest, and drink fluids. If your air conditioning fails, you can find relief at a public place (such as libraries, theaters, and malls).

Gold Star Will Keep Your Delaware HVAC Running

Gold Star can help make your home a haven against the heat by maintaining, repairing, upgrading, or installing the best Delaware HVAC system for your home. With our experienced technicians available for emergency repairs, maintenance agreements that get your Delaware AC system in shape for the summer, and affordable installation plans, Gold Star has all the Delaware HVAC services your home needs.

Call us today at 1-302-947-8694 and let Gold Star help you beat the heat this summer!