As summer temperatures rise, it’s important to prepare now to protect yourself and your family from extreme heat and potential power outages. High indoor temperatures can lead to serious and even deadly illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Even if you have air conditioning, a sudden power outage can make cooling systems useless when you need them most. Make sure your A/C is serviced before the hottest days arrive. If you don’t have air conditioning, identify places nearby, like cooling centers, libraries, or malls, where you can stay cool during extreme heat events. Remember, electric fans don’t lower the temperature; they only move air around, so be sure to use them safely. Use shading strategies such as covering sun-facing windows with curtains or awnings, and manage ventilation based on whether outdoor air is hotter or cooler than the inside. Consider long-term improvements like insulating your attic to reduce indoor heat buildup.
Be aware of the signs of heat-related illness and know when to call 911 as heat stroke can be fatal. Vulnerable populations such as older adults, infants, people with chronic conditions, and those without air conditioning are especially at risk. Stay informed using the National Weather Service’s HeatRisk index to anticipate when extreme heat might impact your area. If a power outage occurs, use the same shading and ventilation strategies to keep your home cooler, and never use fuel-powered generators indoors or in enclosed areas, always operate them outside, at least 20 feet from your home, to avoid deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. For more information, the EPA offers helpful videos and resources on staying safe and protecting indoor air quality during power outages.