Travel Prepared – Heat Wave Strategies

Drinking plenty of water is a great start, but you can do even more to stay cool. During hot weather, it’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, due to their dehydrating effects and potential to worsen heat-related illnesses. Try dampening your pulse points like your neck, wrists, and ankles, with a wet cloth or cool compress. It's a quick and effective way to bring down your body temperature. At home or in your hotel, create your own "cool zone" by closing the blinds, using fans for cross-ventilation, and hanging damp towels to boost the cooling effect. And when planning your day, aim to stay indoors during the hottest mid-day hours and save outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.

When you're traveling in extreme heat, preparation is key. Bring along essentials like a refillable water bottle, electrolyte packs, a cooling towel, a personal fan, and a mist spray to keep you refreshed on the go. Wear sunscreen and reapply every couple of hours whenever outdoors. Try to plan outdoor sightseeing for the cooler parts of the day. Opt for indoor attractions like museums or galleries, when the sun is at its strongest. If you're on a road trip, make regular stops in shaded or air-conditioned spots to give your body a break from the heat.

Understanding the signs of heat-related illness can be lifesaving. Heat exhaustion often starts with heavy sweating, nausea, dizziness, or muscle cramps. If not addressed, it can escalate into heat stroke, marked by confusion, fainting, or a body temperature of 103°F or higher. If you or someone around you shows these symptoms, act quickly—move to a cooler place, hydrate, and seek medical attention if needed. People with certain health conditions or taking specific medications should be especially cautious.

Before booking your stay, double-check that your accommodations have reliable air conditioning. If you're heading to an area prone to outages, consider lodging with backup power options. Also, look into the property's cancellation or change policy—some may offer flexibility if extreme weather interferes with your plans.

Our furry companions need just as much protection from the heat as we do. Never leave a pet in a parked car, temperatures inside can skyrocket within minutes, even with the windows cracked. At home or while traveling, make sure your pets always have access to fresh water and shade. Also, do not walk your pet on asphalt surfaces during hot temperatures, as the surface is much hotter than the outdoor temperature. Try to limit walks to early morning or late evening when sidewalks and streets are cooler on their paws. If possible, create a cool indoor spot for them with a fan, a cooling mat, or a chilled towel. They'll appreciate the extra care.

Extreme heat doesn't affect everyone equally. Take time to check in on neighbors, friends, or family members who might be more vulnerable—like the elderly, young children, or people with chronic health conditions. Local libraries and community centers offer cooling areas for those that do not have access to a climate-controlled home. And consider your energy use too: setting your thermostat to 78°F and using fans can help conserve power while keeping your space comfortable.