If there’s one thing consistently on the minds of every St. Louis resident right now, it has to be this summer heat!  Here in St. Louis, we are truly *blessed* to be at the meteorological crossroads of scorching Midwestern temperatures and muggy southeastern humidity.

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^We’ve probably all been in a conversation like this at some point.

Our climate here in St. Louis makes for some pretty unbearable weather in the summer months, and it’s important to make sure you, your loved ones, and your community stay safe during the hot weather.  Here are some tips to combat the danger of extreme heat:

  1. Stay Cool!
    • Seek out air conditioning (especially if your home does not have AC)
    • Avoid direct sunlight
    • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing if you need to go outside
    • Take cool showers or baths
    • Go for a swim (Click here for a list of city pools.)
    • Limit your time outdoors, or take frequent breaks in an air conditioned space if you must be outside
    • If you can help it, don’t rely on a fan as your primary cooling device!
  2. Stay hydrated!
    • Drink more water than you normally would
    • Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink more liquids
    • Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks
    • Make sure others are drinking enough water, too!
  3. Stay informed!
    • Check local news or set alerts on your phone’s weather app for excessive heat watches and warnings (I personally use The Weather Channel’s app, but there are many other options available)
    • Learn how to recognize signs of heat related illnesses (see the graphic below).

Did you know extreme heat causes more deaths every year than hurricanes, lightning, floods, tornadoes, and earthquakes combined?  These deaths are 100% preventable, so it’s a good idea to recognize the warning signs of heat illness and how to treat them.  Pay especially close attention to friends, family, and neighbors who are under age 4, over age 65, have existing medical problems such as heart disease, and/or do not have access to air conditioning in their home!  These groups are at higher risk for heat related illnesses than the general population

heat illnesses

If you have questions or concerns about heat related illnesses, always contact a medical professional for the best advice.