Having lived on the hot and very humid East Coast with a personal history of heat exhaustion - I know the symptoms and what to do to take care - yet even then I have had problems in Portland.
Dealing with many days of hot in a row is something to be serious about. In fact, as a NET person we got warning that we may be put on stand-by...
Here are some precautions to take that we got from NET:
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
Never leave anyone in an enclosed vehicle, even with the windows partially open.
Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty. Start drinking fluids at least 30 minutes before going out.
Avoid beverages with caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar because these can actually result in the loss of body fluid.
Eat smaller meals, more often, but be sure meals are well balanced, cool and light.
Take frequent breaks when working or recreating outside.
Wear sunscreen SPF 15 or higher, wide-brimmed hats and light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.
Dress infants and children in cool, loose clothing. Shade their heads and faces with hats or an umbrella. Use sunscreen as directed on small children!
Consult your health care provider about the added effects of sun and heat when taking prescription drugs, especially diuretics, antihistamines and antidepressants.
Check on your animals frequently to ensure they are not suffering from the heat, have water and shade.
and my own added warning - don't just drink water - you need electrolytes added to it - I use a product I market but there are others available - water alone can flush your system of needed resources. This many learn from experience - so learn from mine and take care this week.
