When you are preparing for a hurricane, it is important to plan for the heat, which follows a hurricane. Heat exhaustion can be deadly and you need to be prepared to combat it. People are not used to dealing with heat anymore. There are air conditioners, fans, and the wonderful electricity to make sure that these are working at all times. After a hurricane you will often lose these for sometime. You will not have the luxury of an air conditioned home. You need to prepare now to combat the heat.
1) The first thing you should do is to store plenty of water. If you have plenty of water in your system, then your body can cool off. Dehydration will lead to eat exhaustion. You should make sure that you drink a lot of water after a hurricane to make sure you do not overheat.
2) Stay indoors or in a cool shady place during the hottest times of the day. In most places this is usually between 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. or later. It would be best if you were not attempting to do major clean up activities during this time. Sit and allow your body to rest during the hottest part of the day.
3) You may consider storing battery-powered hand held fans to help to fight the heat. If you don’t have these any piece of paper can be used to cool off. Once ice is available you can set a fan over the ice and you will enjoy the cool air blowing your way.
4) If you have a shelter available and means to get to one, consider going to the shelter. Usually they try to restore power to the shelters first because they help more people that way. You will be able to cool off at the shelter.
If you begin to feel dizzy or tired you should seek medical help. Dressing in cool lightweight clothes can also help to prevent heat exhaustion. Remember not to do too much when it is very hot outside. If you know how to combat heat exhaustion you will be better prepared to deal with aftermath of a hurricane.