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How to Survive a Heat Wave. When the temperatures approach dangerous levels, you need to know
how to keep cool to avoid heat-related illnesses -- and even death. You will need Shade Sunscreen
Hat Lightweight, light-colored clothing Fluids Appropriate food Cool water Air conditioning
Pool or cooling center and ice cream. People who are on fluid-restrictive diets or have
a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before increasing their consumption
of fluids. Step 1. Stay out of the summer sun. Find shade and, if you have to be in
the sun, make sure you're wearing sunscreen and a hat. Wear lightweight, light-colored
clothing to reflect heat and sunshine. Step 2. Drink plenty of water -- even if you're
not thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks as these tend to dehydrate you.
Step 3. Avoid proteins and other foods that require an increased metabolic rate for your
body to process. Increased metabolic heat production also increases water loss. Step
4. Take cool showers or baths, spritz yourself with cool water from a spray bottle, drape
your head and neck with towels soaked in cool water, and soak your feet in cool water baths.
Avoid extreme temperature changes, which may make you feel nauseous or dizzy. Step 5. Use
an air conditioner, or stay in well-ventilated rooms with fans if you don't have air conditioning.
Spend the hottest part of the day -- 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. -- in air-conditioned places such
as movie theaters or shopping centers. Step 6. Locate a pool or cooling center in your
area if you live in or near a larger city. Many municipalities use public libraries or
other city buildings as cooling centers during heat waves. Step 7. Avoid physical labor,
exercise, or other strenuous activity during the hottest times of the day. If you have
to perform strenuous activities, do them between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m. Step 8. Check on the elderly,
children, and people with special needs frequently during a heat wave. Now, go round up the neighborhood
children, get some ice cream, and stay cool! Did you know During the summer of 1896, a
heat wave that lasted for 10 days killed almost 1,500 people in New York.