Jul 29, 2009
Ways to beat the heat wave in Washington State
We have information available for those affected by multiple sclerosis on how to prepare for the Washington summers. You can protect yourself against very high temperatures. We offer information such as cooling center locations, affordable body cooling systems, and what to do in case of a power outage.
For more information on where you can go to stay cool, visit these web sites:
- Find a cooling center near you
- Hot weather precautions
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Extreme Heat pages
- Sun protection guidelines for child care providers
- FAQ on animal care and control
- National Weather Service forecasts for King County
- Check local air quality
Body Cooling Systems are an effective way to stay cool and find comfort. Please contact us if you are interested in learning more about where to purchase a cooling vest. Also, if you are in need of financial assistance for the purchase we can help. Want to learn more? Call 1-800-344-4867 and press Option 1.
High temperatures can add strain on our electrical equipment. Should the power go out, first check your main switch for a blown fuse or an open breaker. If that is not the problem, call City Light’s Outage Hotline at 206-684-7400 for a recording of all known outages. If your area is not mentioned, please let us know by calling 206-684-3000.
City Light urges its customers to be prepared for outages.
Find out Power Outage Emergency Information for Washington State
Some common heat minimizers are:
Drink plenty of fluids.
- Water is the fluid of choice.
- Drinking cool water can help keep you cool.
- Avoid caffeine as this acts as a diuretic.
Use fans, air conditioning, even hand-held spray bottles.
- Air-conditioners can be tax-deductible with a document from your physician.
Exercise in a cool environment.
- If you are exercising outside, pick the cooler times of the day, usually early morning or evening.
- If exercising inside, using air conditioning or a fan can help maintain body temperature at an appropriate level.
- Exercising in cool water (recommended temperature 80-84 degrees) is an excellent way to combat heat during physical activity.
Wear commercial cooling garments such as vests, headbands and neckbands — many athletes use them.
- A simple damp towel can be helpful, if you do not have one of these products.
- Traditional wide brimmed hats and light-colored loose clothing also help.
Try “pre-cooling” to decrease the heating effects of exercise. Pre-cooling may increase the time it takes for the core body temperature to rise.
- Get into a bathtub of cool water. The water temperature should be comfortably lukewarm to start. Continue adding cooler water over a period of 20-30 minutes.
- Submersion of the upper body in cool water will provide the optimal benefit.
A cool bath or shower can also help reduce core body temperature following activity or exposure to a hot environment.
So, don't be discouraged by the heat of the summer months. Find the strategies that work best for you, because YOU CAN beat the heat!
Contributing editors: Brian Hutchinson, PT, President, The Heuga Center; InsideMS Magazine.
Find a Cooling Center Near You
- Clark County, WA
- Fort Lewis
- Island County, WA
- King County, WA
- Kitsap County, WA
- Mason County, WA
- Pierce County, WA
- Snohomish County, WA
- Thurston County, WA
- Whatcom County
- Portland area, OR