The ability to prepare for the summer heat in the home is essential to preventing discomfort and stress, while ensuring safety. Summer heat waves have been Wisconsin’s most significant cause of weather-related deaths in the last 50 years. Fatalities from extreme heat surpassed the number of tornado and hurricane-related deaths during this period. In 1995, two massive heat waves affected most of the state, resulting in 154 deaths and more than 300 heat-related illnesses.
Wisconsin can sometimes be prone to extreme heat, so residents need to know about heat-related risks and take steps to ensure their well-being. It is just as important to learn safety tips to safeguard health throughout summer and get appropriate homeowner’s insurance.
Preparing your Home for the Summer Season
Summer brings with it an increased risk of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Children and older adults are especially prone to these hazards, so you should keep your home’s temperature manageable.
Now would probably be a good time to invest in an air conditioning system if you haven’t done so. Most do an excellent job of keeping your interior cool if you choose the appropriate size and design for your home.
You could also use blinds or curtains to keep direct sunlight out. Maintaining the interior’s low temperature will be more accessible by preventing too much light from entering. Your air conditioning unit won’t have to work nearly as hard to cool down your room.
Check Electrical Fixtures
Faulty electrical systems or components cause many fires. It is essential to check your wiring, sockets, and light fixtures regularly, but especially before hot weather sets in. The summer heat and humidity often require you to keep your cooling systems running for long hours. It can place them under considerable strain and cause an electrical fire.
Heating systems are common causes of electrical fires but don’t neglect your air conditioning systems. If you haven’t cleaned or inspected your HVAC system recently, it would be a good idea to do so before summer begins.
Identify Potential Fire Hazards
Fires are a lot more common when the temperatures rise. Before summer arrives, thoroughly assess your house and identify potential fire hazards. It is vital to store combustible substances and flammable materials away from heat and light.
Remember to check stoves and barbecue grills as well. Grills, in particular, are commonly associated with fires, especially when placed near combustible materials.
Pay special attention to possible gas leaks. Check your hoses for cracks and broken seals, and repair or replace them immediately. Also, ensure that anything that might start a fire stays far out of the reach of children.
Install a ventilation system to direct hot air out of your house and let cool air in. Depending on the setup of your home, you could leave windows on both sides of the room open to let excellent air flow through the interior.
Safeguard your Health
On sweltering days, try to move as little as possible. It is advisable to minimize or hold off on strenuous physical activity‒including exercising and working out‒during the hottest parts of the day. If you have to go outside or work out, try planning your activities for early morning or late at night when the temperature is cool.
Take plenty of fluids and stick to light meals. Consume plenty of liquids throughout the day instead of waiting until you’re parched to take a drink. Avoid beverages with caffeine and alcohol as they can cause you to expel fluids much more quickly.
Wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothes. Dark-colored clothes tend to absorb light readily and can trap heat. On the other hand, light-colored clothes reflect light and direct heat away from your body, keeping you cool. If you have to go outdoors, wear sunglasses and a hat, and bring an umbrella.
Don’t Forget Your Pets!
Animals are just as prone to the ill effects of heat as humans. Make sure your pets are safe and have ready access to plenty of water. It is also advisable to set up a shaded area where they can get refuge from the sun.
It is probably best to keep your pets indoors, mainly if they do not spend much time outside. And never leave them in a parked vehicle, even if you are only running into the store for a few minutes.
About Rodrian Insurance, Affiliate of Robertson Ryan Insurance
Rodrian Insurance, Affiliate of Robertson Ryan Insurance specializes in giving you insurance solutions that perfectly match your business and personal life. We provide insurance options that offer excellent coverage while remaining within your budget, based on a thorough understanding and assessment of your needs, circumstances, and financial capability. Find out more about how Rodrian Insurance, Affiliate of Robertson Ryan Insurance can fulfill your insurance needs. Call or text us at (262) 781-4750 or email us at info@rodrian.com.
