Stay safe in extreme heat

Know the signs of heat illness

Portions of our service area often reach dangerously high temperatures, and because hurricane season lands in the height of summertime – it gets hot. If you’re without power, stay cool and drink plenty of fluids to prevent heat-related illness. 

The best way to avoid a heat-related illness is to limit your time outdoors on hot days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

  • Drink fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty
  • Wear loose, lightweight clothing and a hat
  • Replace salt lost from sweating by drinking fruit juice or sports drinks
  • Avoid spending time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Wear sunscreen; sunburn affects the body's ability to cool itself
  • Air conditioning is the best way to cool off; if using a generator, do so safely 

Keep an eye out for others

When working in the heat, monitor the condition of those around you. Heat-induced illness can cause a person to become confused or lose consciousness. If you are 65 years of age or older, have a friend or relative call to check on you twice a day during a heat wave. If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day. 

Know the signs

The CDC identifies signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them, including:

  • Heat stroke: This is a medical emergency. If you suspect that you are experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately. Body temperature may be 103 degrees or higher; skin is hot, red, dry or damp; pulse is fast and strong; you may experience a headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion or a loss of consciousness.
  • Heat exhaustion: You may experience heavy sweating, muscle cramps or similar symptoms to a heat stroke. Seek medical attention right away if you’re throwing up or your symptoms worsen.
  • Heat cramps: Could experience heavy sweating and muscle pain or spasms. Seek medical attention right away if your cramps last longer than one hour.
  • Sunburn: Painful, red, warm or blistered skin. Stay out of the sun, and care for your skin.
  • Heat rash: Red patches of blisters on the skin. Try to stay in a cool, dry place. And take care of the rash.

Call 1-800-9OUTAGE (1-800-968-8243) to report downed power lines