Prepare for Extreme Heat: Know what to do to plan for extreme heat in the summer

It is crucial to protect yourself, your family & your pets during times of extreme heat. Much of the United States is under heat-related advisories due to high temperatures outside. According to the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, excessive heat is the cause of more deaths in the U.S. than any other natural disaster. Extreme heat poses an increased threat to the disability community & any marginalized communities due to reduced access to safe, healthy environments.

There are individual and household actions you can take to protect yourself and those you care about:

Find places to cool down, such as a well-shaded park, an air-conditioned mall, a cooling center offered by your local government, or a friend's house with air-conditioning.

Limit physical activity; now is not the time to go for a strenuous bike ride or perform hours of yard work out in the sun. Take it slow and easy. Plan to spend as much time as possible inside, in the shade, and preferably in the air conditioning.

Choose your foods wisely. High-protein foods raise your body's metabolism and temperature. Go for more fresh fruits and vegetables until this current heat wave breaks.

Drink plenty of water. Water is your most important and successful source of hydration. Avoid drinking too much caffeine or alcohol. And remember your pets and service animals. They, too, need more water during these days of extreme heat!

Have a network of support. Check on your friends and neighbors and ask that they check on you. Create a plan in case of emergency. An example is how to travel to local cooling centers, air-conditioned facilities, or even to the hospital if you experience a sudden, heat related illness.

Plan for extreme heat. As the effect of global warming increases, we will all be affected by extreme temperatures. Two ways to prepare:

Find local warming and cooling centers. Find centers that can accommodate your disability. Not all are built the same. In addition, plan for your transportation to & from the center. Discuss these plans with a community of support. Have your personal emergency kit packed and ready to go!
Have a plan in case of a power outage. Many in the disability community rely on electricity to run Assistive Technology. Decide ahead of the emergency how to access a generator or extra batteries. Be prepared in case of power loss.

Make a simple plan ahead of extreme temperatures to protect yourself and your household from potential dangers associated with a lack of resources or support. If you have a specific need or concern, please call Able SC at 800-681-6805.

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