There are going to be record high temperatures this Labor Day weekend here in Southern California so I’m sharing some timely information for anyone who lives in or vacations to a hot spot throughout the year.

The first email I received regarding the extreme heat was from the team at Heal, which is an app that offers house calls from doctors. They wrote: “It’s important to remember how quickly extreme heat can turn dangerous. Dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke are the three most common heat-related illnesses people experience. Classic symptoms include excessive thirst, headaches, nausea, and dizziness. When experiencing these symptoms it’s paramount to get out of the sun, drink plenty of water and cool down your body temperature. If symptoms are prolonged or severe, you should seek immediate medical attention.”

Sadly, a friend of mine just lost one of her friends to heatstroke while vacationing in Cancun last month. Don’t mess around this weekend or whenever you’re somewhere warm.

The other related email I received was from our electric company, Southern California Edison (SCE). They’re asking for customers to conserve power, particularly from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. to help reduce the strain on the electric grid. Their advice is to turn your air conditioner up to at least 78°F and to turn off unnecessary appliances. They also included energy conservation tips and several ways everyone can prepare for hot weather:

  • “Pre-cool” your home, or lower air conditioning thermostats before 3 p.m.
  • Charge electric vehicles before 3 p.m. or after 9 p.m.
  • Make sure to charge mobile devices and laptops before 3 p.m.
  • Run dishwashers, washing machines, and other major appliances before 3 p.m. or after 9 p.m.
  • Set pool pumps to run in the early morning or late at night.

No matter where you’re going to be this Labor Day weekend or throughout the year, I hope you stay safe and don’t lose power. The tips above can help all of us better prepare for a heatwave.

Related: 
Two Ways to Remove Beach Tar From Your Feet
Wear Sunscreen That Doesn’t Harm the Ocean
If You Don’t See Locals in the Water, Don’t Go in the Water
Important Advice About Swimming in the Caribbean and Elsewhere
What to Do If Your Smartphone Gets Wet
How to Use a Beach Umbrella Safely

 

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