Staying Cool and Safe During Power Outages After Hurricane Beryl
Introduction:
After Hurricane Beryl swept through the Greater Houston area, leaving 1.5 million CenterPoint Energy customers without power, health experts are warning about the dangers of extreme heat. As temperatures quickly rose to the 90s, those without air conditioning are at risk of heat-related illnesses. It is important to take precautions and stay cool and hydrated during power outages to avoid any health complications.
The Invisible Killer: Extreme Heat:
According to Dr. Kevin Lanza, an environmental health science professor at UT Health Houston School of Public Health, extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. It is often underestimated and overlooked as an invisible killer. Lanza emphasizes the importance of not taking extreme heat for granted.
Seeking Relief: A Family’s Journey:
Brianna Guerrero and her family experienced the unbearable heat after their power went out. With no cell signal and complete darkness in their area, they made the decision to drive to downtown Houston for some relief at Discovery Green. They hope to receive updates from CenterPoint and have their power restored soon.
Tips for Staying Cool:
If leaving the house or going to a cooling center is not an option, there are steps you can take to keep yourself cool during a power outage. Staying hydrated is crucial, but it’s important to drink water rather than cooling drinks like coffee, alcoholic beverages, or energy drinks, as these can dehydrate you. Sweating is the body’s natural way of cooling down, so it’s essential to have enough body fluids.
Dr. Lanza also suggests staying on the bottom floor of your home if it is multi-story since heat tends to rise. Covering up windows to block the heat and keeping the temperature cooler can also help. Additionally, running a battery-powered fan behind a wet curtain or towel can increase the wind chill effect in your home.
Looking Out for Vulnerable Individuals:
It is crucial to check on more vulnerable individuals, such as children and older populations, during a power outage. Look for red flags that could indicate the need for medical attention, such as heat rash, muscle spasms, or heat cramps. These symptoms may progress to heat exhaustion, characterized by profuse sweating, dizziness, and nausea. If you are unable to cool yourself off, it could lead to neurological problems like confusion or loss of consciousness.
Conclusion:
As the Greater Houston area copes with power outages after Hurricane Beryl, it is essential to prioritize staying cool and safe during extreme heat. Taking precautions such as staying hydrated with water, staying on the lower floor of your home, covering windows, and using a battery-powered fan effectively can help prevent heat-related illnesses. Additionally, checking on vulnerable individuals and seeking medical attention if necessary are vital steps in ensuring everyone’s well-being during this challenging time.
