It's summer in the borderland, temperatures are hitting triple digits and this can be dangerous.

It's great that we enjoy pretty consistent and pleasant weather here in the southwest but, when full-on summer arrives, it gets crazy hot.

Today's high, (6/4/20) for example, is expected to be 105 degrees. It will get a little hotter too as Summer rolls on but, look at the bright side, at least we're not in Phoenix, where it routinely gets so hot that planes cannot take off. (Their record high is 122 degrees) Death Valley is even worse, with a record high of 134 degrees.)

Basically, any high temperature ... say, 70 + ... can be dangerous if you're not prepared for it. Here are a few tips to help you stay cool and safe this summer:

  • Don't go out in the hottest part of the day. Try and run errands, do yard work, etc in the early morning or early evening. (And, when you are out, use proper sunscreen!)
  • Keep windows covered.
  • Make sure your air conditioner is in perfect working order. For evaporative coolers, change pads annually and make sure water is being evenly distributed on them.
  • Adjust your diet. Switch to cold cuts, fruits and salads and try to avoid using stoves and ovens as they will warm up the house.
  • Eat spicy foods. They really do help you deal with high temperatures and, around here anyway, they're super easy to find!
  • Know the signs of heatstroke. and other heat-related illnesses.
  • Finally ... and this should always be the case, hot or cold ... drink lots of water!

There are other ways you can stay cooler, read more here and here. For tips on sleeping more comfortably in high heat, click here. Also, remember that the youngest and oldest are the most susceptible to heat. (See video above!) So, keep a close eye on kids and check on elderly loved ones often.

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