Tips for Weathering the Heat Wave in Kern County

You’ve heard about heat waves happening all over the continent, and there’s a forecast that the third heat wave of the summer is underway in Kern County. As you may recall, the hottest day of the year in Kern County was 110 degrees on July 17th — and now, the excessive heat warning projects a high of 105 degrees as our kids are preparing to go back to school. 

It’s time to get serious about keeping yourself and your loved ones safe in the heat. Here are some tips to help. 

Keep Hydrating

Water is always essential, but even more so during a heat wave. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) advises drinking one cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes if you’re outside in the heat (but no more than 48 fluid ounces per hour in order to keep blood salt at a safe level). When leaving home, be sure to take a water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day.

In addition, you can stay hydrated by choosing water-rich foods like melon, cucumbers and lettuce. 

Dress for the Heat

Wearing dark, heavy clothing even in hot weather may be trendy right now, but it’s a bad idea when it comes to safety. By dressing yourself and your kids in light colored, loose fitting clothes during a heat wave, you’re keeping your family safe from excessive heat absorption, which can lead to anything from fatigue, to fainting, to heat stroke, which is what the CDC calls “the most serious heat related illness of all.”

Prioritize Staying Cool 

During a heat wave, staying cool should be a priority rather than an afterthought. If you can stay indoors during the hottest time of day, you should; if not, make every attempt to stay in the shade. When going out, cover your windshield with a car shade every time you park your vehicle. This will help keep your car cool throughout the day. And never, ever leave children or pets alone in the car. Aside from the obvious safety hazard, both children and small animals are affected by heat much more quickly than grown adults. 

These are some of the simplest ways to weather this year’s heat wave. Kern County residents looking for smart home systems and smart home automation for more energy-efficient home management, call Secure Systems today. 

About Secure Systems 

Secure Systems is a Bakersfield alarm company that installs alarms for homes and businesses. We also install residential camera systems and business camera systems, commercial and residential fire alarm systems, wireless monitoring, remote access alarm systems, access control and door buzzers in Bakersfield and Kern County. Call us today at (661) 326-1747.