How can heat illness be prevented?
Use an air conditioner during a heat wave. • Make sure it works before summer begins. • If you do not have an air conditioner: • Go to a cool place like a neighbor’s house, library, shopping mall, swimming pool, or NYC Cooling Center • Keep your windows open to let in fresh air • Consider buying an air conditioner • Take a cool shower or bath. Be careful because sudden temperature changes may make you feel dizzy or sick • Use a fan ONLY when the air conditioner is on or when the windows are open. Otherwise, a fan will just blow around hot air. • If you use a window fan, set it to blow out hot air during the day and bring in cooler air at night Drink water even if you do not feel thirsty. • Check your urine – Dark urine may mean you are not drinking enough. • Avoid drinks with alcohol, caffeine or lots of sugar. Warning: Talk to your doctor about how to increase the amount of water you drink if you are on a fluid restricted diet. Check on family members, friends and neighbors to make su
