With the wave of hundred-degree days in the next couple weeks, local experts have tips on how to prepare yourself. Whether you’re going to a Cardinals game, trying to save money on air conditioning, or trying to stay safe at work, there are ways to make it through the heat wave. Total Information AM spoke to some experts with advice.
Avoiding heat-related illness
When it comes to avoiding heat stroke, Washington University Emergency Medicine Specialist Dr. Rob Poirier said some groups are more likely to be impacted than others.
“It’s early in the year, so our bodies are not fully adjusted or acclimated to the high heat yet. There are people out there struggling— the very old, and the young, and those with lots of medical issues and on medications that make them more prone to being a little dehydrated are most impacted.”
He said staying hydrated is important — that means drinking plenty of water and avoiding things like alcohol or drinks that are high in caffeine or sugar. Additionally, he says to limit your time outdoors, stay out of direct sunlight, know where you can go to get cool, and to check on your elderly neighbors.
Saving money on air conditioning:
Page Selby, Amaren manager of customer advocacy, shared that there are plenty of ways to reduce high air conditioning costs. However, she emphasized that people should never forgo air conditioning completely — those few extra dollars are better than a hospital bill.
To help cool down your house for less, she suggests using fans in addition to AC, taking meal prep outside if you can (try grilling instead of using the stove or oven, which can heat up the house quickly), cleaning air conditioner filters, and keeping blinds closed. Selby said keeping your house shady can reduce the heat inside by 33%. She also recommends a smart thermostat.
“You can keep your house comfortable with a smart thermostat that does all the work for you,” she said. “It pre-cools your house before it gets too hot, and then your air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard.”
Attending a Cardinals game:
If you’re planning on heading to Busch Stadium for a game, there are many ways to keep yourself hydrated and safe in the heat and sun. Stadium staff set up seven “water monsters” — giant coolers that hold 125 gallons of water. Plus, they have misting stations set up, and ushers will be scanning the seats for fans with signs of heatstroke. Those showing symptoms will be taken to unticketed seats in the shade. Additionally, medical crews will be on hand just in case.
Working in the heat:
OSHA area director Bill McDonald discussed how to avoid the dangers of working in extreme heat.
“Any kind of job is really subject to heat stress. Right now we consider the outside jobs — construction activity, agricultural activity, delivery drivers, postal workers — anybody who has to work their entire day outside is certainly affected,” McDonald said.
He pointed out that workplaces like bakeries, power plants, or anywhere with a furnace can get very hot indoors as well.
“Any time there’s a hot environment, you need to take precautions and slow down,” he added. Plus, making sure you have water — or some type of sports drink to get electrolytes — and taking rests when you need to are key ways to help. He also recommends paying attention to your behavior, and if you find yourself acting differently than usual, take yourself out of the environment you’re in and cool off.
Find cooling centers in the city here:
https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/live-work/summer/cooling-centers.cfm