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The heat wave we are experiencing around the United States is a topic of some concern. In several major cities, with large populations, people have been left without electricity sometimes for days. Here are some ways to help you survive this unpleasant experience.

Keep your windows closed during the heat of the day. This may seem contradictory but it works. Keep your windows open in the cool of the evening and the early morning hours and keep them closed during the day. This locks the cool air in. Also, draw your blinds or insulated drapes shut. This helps to keep the sun out and the cool air in longer.

Don't open your refrigerator or freezer if you can help it. Leaving the door to your refrigerator closed will keep the temperature cool enough for your food to stay fresh for twenty-four hours. Fruit will stay safely, in a bowl, on your counter for several days. The same applies to some vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers and avocados. Keep cans of nuts available in your cupboards for protein. A peanut butter sandwich does not have to be refrigerated. Snack on dry cereal. If you feel the need to open the refrigerator, limit it to once a day.

Take a siesta. Many people who live in warm climates, without air conditioning, know this secret. Reserve your activity for the early morning and evening hours. In the heat of the day take a nap or rest to preserve your strength. Limit any activity to low energy level tasks.

Drink plenty of water. When temperatures are very high we lose moisture from our bodies at a faster rate. This can sometimes sneak up on us because we don't realize how much and at what rate we are losing liquid. If you start to get a headache or nauseous from the heat make sure you are drinking plenty of water to replace the moisture your body is losing. Another item to stock in your house when temperatures are high is a sports drink, such as Gatorade. This will help keep your electrolytes balanced. Dehydration can be a very unpleasant experience for many of us but is especially dangerous for the very young and the elderly.

Soak in a cool bath, twice a day to bring down your temperature, if you feel the need. Another way to do this, especially for the elderly is to soak your feet in a pan of cool water. It is easier than drawing a bath and you get almost instant relief. When the water starts to warm replace it with cold water.

Be a good neighbor. If you know that you have an elderly neighbor or a neighbor with a serious medical condition, make it a point to check on them. These very high temperatures, for extended periods of time with no relief, can be fatal to someone with no air conditioning and a serious medical condition.

While this can be an unpleasant time for all of us, it is usually temporary. The electric companies try and get the electricity up and running as fast as possible. Following these tips should help to keep you or someone you love safer and cooler during the long hot days of summer. Stay safe.