Many Oregonians are looking forward to the influx of sunny days this season, but as temperatures climb each year and the heat intensifies, staying cool has become a critical need.
With the start of summer only days away, Community Energy Project has assembled some tips for practical ways to keep your household comfortable even when temperatures start to soar.
Windows:
Curtains and blinds are useful beyond the privacy they provide. By installing curtains and blinds, especially fixtures utilizing blackout materials, you can help control the temperature of your home.
During the day, keep your blinds and curtains closed. By preventing the sun’s rays from entering, the easier it is to keep your home cool.
Additionally, open your windows during the early morning when the air outside is cooler, close the windows during the day, and open them again after the sun has set to let out warm air while allowing colder air into your home.
Fans and Air Conditioning:
Act quickly to get a fan or air conditioning (AC) unit. Many older homes in the Pacific Northwest were not constructed with central air conditioning, making it more difficult to regulate internal temperatures.
Before summer kicks off, now is the best time to buy air conditioners and fans, as you’ll have the greatest selection available while avoiding the stress of trying to find the product you need during a heat event.
If you already have an AC unit or fan, ensure they are in proper working order. Performing basic maintenance on AC units and fans can help preserve their usefulness for years to come, and you can find guides on how to properly maintain AC units, as well as clean fans.
Additionally, some members of the Oregon Health Plan are eligible to receive air conditioning units and air purifiers. Cooling Portland is a program that offers efficient, low-cost cooling systems for low-income and vulnerable households. You can apply for this program through our partners at Verde, AAAH, or Earth Advantage. To take advantage of this great program, it’s best to act fast!
Places to Keep You Cool
Libraries, malls, museums, and movie theaters are great places to enjoy the air conditioning and stay entertained during high temps. Cooling center locations are available at 211info.org.
The Effects of Extreme Heat
Extreme heat or a sudden heat wave can have serious impacts on our health. Seniors, infants, and those with chronic medical conditions are at the greatest risk for heat-related illness. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages as they can make dehydration worse. Opting for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and staying in shaded or air-conditioned areas during peak sun hours can help mitigate the risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:
- Heavy sweating
- Dizziness or feeling faint
- Weakness or muscle cramps
- Clammy or pale skin
- Nausea
- Rapid heartbeat
- Shallow or rapid breathing
To help with these symptoms, get to a cool location as quickly as possible. Remove excess clothing and hydrate with water and sports drinks that include electrolytes.
Heat Stroke Symptoms:
- Red, hot skin
- Rapid pulse
- Heavy sweating (may be absent)
- Severe headache
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
- Body temperature of 103 or higher
Heat strokes are a medical emergency. Cool down with wet towels and ice and call 911.
Local Cooling Resources:
Dial 2-1-1 to find cooling center locations and transportation or visit the 211 website