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July 28, 2025
Stay Cool, Stay Safe: Tips for Beating the Heat This Summer
As summer hits its peak, it’s not just the sunburns we need to watch for—extreme heat can be dangerous if we’re not prepared. Heat waves are becoming more common and more intense, and they pose a real risk, especially for children, older adults, and people with certain health conditions. Ottawa County Emergency Management wants to make sure everyone stays safe and informed when the temperatures climb.
Know the Signs of Heat Illness
Heat-related illnesses can sneak up quickly. Pay attention to how you and those around you are feeling. Early symptoms like muscle cramps, headaches, heavy sweating, or dizziness can be a sign that your body is struggling to keep cool.
If left untreated, these can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke—a medical emergency. Call 911 if someone has a rapid pulse, confusion, nausea, or loses consciousness.
Stay Cool and Hydrated
Keeping your body temperature down is key. Here are a few ways to do that:
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Drink plenty of water. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine when it’s hot—they can dehydrate you.
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Find air conditioning. If you don’t have AC at home, spend time in public places like libraries, shopping centers, or community cooling centers.
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Wear light, loose clothing. Natural fabrics like cotton breathe better and help your body cool down.
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Avoid strenuous activity. If you need to be outside, try to get it done early in the morning or after the sun goes down.
Keep Your Home Safe
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Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day to block out sunlight.
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Use fans wisely. Fans can help circulate air, but once it’s over 95°F, they’re not enough on their own—use them with AC or other cooling methods.
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Never leave people or pets in cars. Temperatures can rise fast and become deadly in minutes, even with the windows cracked.
Check On Others
Extreme heat doesn’t affect everyone the same way. Please take a moment to check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with limited mobility. A quick phone call or knock on the door can make a big difference.
Stay Informed
Keep an eye on the forecast and consider downloading a reliable weather app from your iOS or Android app store—Storm Shield is a great option that provides location-based alerts. Staying connected to trusted sources like the National Weather Service and local news outlets can also help you stay ahead of heat advisories and other urgent updates.
Bottom line: Summer should be fun—not dangerous. With a little planning and some common-sense precautions, we can all enjoy the sunshine safely. Stay cool, stay safe, and look out for one another.
For more emergency preparedness tips, follow Ottawa County Emergency Management on Facebook or visit www.miOttawa.org/sheriff/em.
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