While many say July is the hottest month of the year, it gets dangerously toasty in Oklahoma during August. Heat-related threats come in all shapes and sizes – ranging from dangers to your budget to your body. The pros weigh in on how to beat the heat in whatever way you need to.
Budgeting Tips
Want to combat the August heat and boost your budget? Try these tips to save energy and some income during the dog says of summer.
Turn up the thermostat. By setting your thermostat to the highest comfortable temperature you can save some money. Each degree a thermostat is raised can save up to four percent on the cost of operating an air conditioner.
Take advantage of programs. Offered by utility companies like OG&E and Public Service Company of Oklahoma, the programs reduce or shift energy usage when energy demand is high for an overall cost savings. Both companies also offer weatherization programs for qualifying homeowners and renters to increase your home’s energy efficiency, such as with attic insulation, air and duct sealing and replacing light bulbs with energy-saving bulbs.
Become a “fan-atic.” Ceiling and portable fans can keep you cool without you having to lower your thermostat. Setting a fan’s motor to spin counterclockwise will push air down, which is what creates the wind chill and makes the room feel cooler.
Unplug electronics. Many electronics draw power even when turned off. Unplugging devices when they’re not in use can save energy.
Use better bulbs. Replace incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL bulbs, which use less energy and last longer.
Alter appliance use. Run dishwashers, washers and dryers during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower electricity rates.
Give your oven a rest. Skip the oven – and the heat it creates in your kitchen – and use your stovetop, microwave or air fryer, all of which typically run on less energy than an oven. Or get out and grill!
Close your blinds. Keep it cooler by letting less light in.
Give your AC some attention. Regular maintenance – replacing filters and cleaning vents – ensures that your air conditioning unit will run efficiently.
Stay Heat Aware
Alongside budgeting concerns, the summer heat can sometimes lead to serious health issues, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
Heat stroke is a condition caused by your body overheating, usually because of prolonged exposure to, or physical exertion in, high temperatures. Heat stroke requires emergency treatment. Symptoms include high body temperature; hot, red, dry or damp skin; a fast, strong pulse; headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; and loss of consciousness.
Heat exhaustion is a condition that also happens when your body overheats. Symptoms may include heavy sweating; cold, pale and clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; tiredness or weakness, dizziness; headache; and fainting.
“Heat-related deaths are preventable. Protect yourself and others when it’s hot outside by staying cool, hydrated and informed,” says Erica Rankin-Riley, public information officer with the Oklahoma State Department of Health. Rankin-Riley offers the following suggestions to stay safe in the summer heat:
• Stay hydrated with water and avoid sugary beverages.
• Stay cool in an air-conditioned area.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.
• Check your local news for extreme heat alerts and learn about any cooling shelters in your area.
• Do not leave children, dogs or anyone who cannot exit themselves in a park car during extreme heat. Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous and life-threatening temperatures.
Rankin-Riley advises to “make it a habit to check your entire vehicle before locking the doors and walking away,” she says. She suggests placing a personal item like a purse or phone in the back seat, “as another reminder to look before you lock.”
