Summer is heating up in Tualatin, and we want to make sure everyone stays safe, cool, and hydrated during the hottest days of the year. When the temperature climbs, it’s more than just uncomfortable – it can be dangerous, especially for young kids, older adults, pregnant people, pets, and those with health issues. Even healthy folks can run into trouble if they’re not careful.
Drink Lots of Water – Even If You’re Not Thirsty
The number one tip? Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day – not just when you feel thirsty. Try to avoid sugary drinks, energy drinks, or alcohol, which can make you more dehydrated. If you’re heading out, bring a reusable water bottle with you, and remind friends and family to drink up, too.
Dress Light and Take It Easy
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes and don’t forget the sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. If you’re planning to be outside, try to stick to the early morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler. And no shame in slowing down – take lots of breaks in the shade or indoors when you need to.
Staying Cool Without Air Conditioning
Not everyone has air conditioning at home – but there are still plenty of ways to keep your cool:
- Close blinds or curtains (or hang up a blanket) during the day to block out heat, especially on windows that face the sun.
- Open windows and create cross-breezes in the early morning and at night when it’s cooler outside. Use fans to draw in the cooler air, then shut the windows to trap that cool air inside.
- Place a bowl of ice or a frozen water bottle in front of a fan for a mini “cooler.”
- A cool shower or bath, applying cool, damp washcloths to your neck, wrists, and ankles, or even soaking your feet in cold water can lower your core temperature fast.
- Avoid using the oven or stove during the hottest parts of the day.
- Head to public places with A/C. Even a couple of hours in a cool space can help your body reset.
- If temperatures stay high for several days, the City may open designated cooling centers. Keep an eye on washingtoncountyor.gov/public-health/hot-weather and/or the City’s social media for updates.
Check-In on Others – and Don’t Forget Pets
Make sure to check in on neighbors, especially older adults or anyone living alone. And please – never leave people or pets in parked cars, even for a minute. Temps can rise dangerously fast. Pets also need shade and plenty of cool water. If the pavement is too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for their paws.
Know the Warning Signs
If you or someone else starts feeling dizzy, weak, or nauseous – don’t wait. It might be heat exhaustion. If they stop sweating, have a high body temp, or seem confused or faint – that could be heat stroke, and it’s a medical emergency. Call 911 right away and try to cool them down.
A little preparation and some neighborly support can go a long way. A quick check-in with a friend or neighbor might just keep someone safe and healthy this summer. Stay safe and stay cool out there!
