The playlist for this week is predictable.
There’s “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles. And maybe “Summer in the City” (The Lovin’ Spoonful), or “Cruel Summer” (Bananarama), or “Heat Wave” (Martha and the Vandellas). In other words, it is going to be “Hot Hot Hot” (Buster Poindexter), with temperatures expected to reach triple digits each of the next couple of days. The heat could even challenge Vancouver’s record high of 108 degrees, set in 2009.
The National Weather Service has issued an extreme-heat warning through Friday evening. So, with the weather promising to feel like a “Disco Inferno” (The Trammps), allow us to offer some advice for keeping cool:
• Seek out air-conditioned spaces. As Laurel McCoy, a forecaster for the National Weather Service in Portland, told The Columbian: “Think about places you might be able to spend an afternoon or two, like going to a library or the movies or something like that.”
• At home, use fans to promote air circulation. Close doors and windows — plus curtains and blinds — when the temperatures are cool. When the outside temperature cools to below the indoor temperature, open windows and make use of the fans.
• As MedicineNet.com writes: “Take advantage of the cooling power of water. Fill buckets or basins and soak your feet. Wet towels and bandanas can have a cooling effect when worn on the shoulders or head. Take cool showers or baths, and consider using a spray bottle filled with cold water for refreshing spritzes throughout the day.”
• Remain hydrated, drinking sufficient amounts of water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they serve as diuretics and promote dehydration.
• And the National Weather Service recommends rescheduling strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
Perhaps most important, it is essential during a heat wave to keep an eye out for others. Elderly people are particularly susceptible to the consequences of overheating, so check on neighbors or loved ones who might become endangered. Also, watch pets for signs of overheating while making sure they have plenty of water to drink. One good suggestion: Provide a damp, cool towel that pets can lay on to promote cooling.
If you spend time in the sun or exert yourself outside, be cognizant of the signs of heatstroke. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures and coma can all result from heatstroke.” The clinic’s website adds: “Heatstroke requires emergency treatment. Untreated heatstroke can quickly damage your brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. The damage worsens the longer treatment is delayed, increasing your risk of serious complications or death.” In addition, be aware that some medications can contribute to heatstroke.
The Northwest typically is the beneficiary of a mild climate that contributes to the region’s high level of livability. While we often complain about wet, gray winters, we are fortunate to generally avoid the freezing temperatures that encase many areas of the country. Summers usually are mild and devoid of the stifling humidity that lead to misery elsewhere.
Because of that, many of us are unprepared for the kind of heat that is expected this week. So, in addition to taking the necessary precautions, it might be time to think some cool thoughts and add maybe “Cold As Ice” (Foreigner) or “Nine Below Zero” (Sonny Boy Williamson) to that playlist.
