Summers in the Toronto and GTA area are known to get hot. Many love the heat in contrast to the cold Canadian winters, but some days are more unbearable than others. As residents may know, a typical day in August can reach a high of around 35 degrees! Fortunately with Alliance Energy Source here to help, you are always guaranteed cool comfort on the hot summer days when you need a quick air conditioning repair or replacement for your home. 

However, when the heat stays around for the long term it can have damaging effects on your cooling system and health! That is why it is important to watch out for these three heat-related symptoms and their potential dangers.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is your body’s way of reacting to overheating. Signs of heat exhaustion include dehydration, rapid pulse and heavy sweating. It is caused from exposure to very high temperatures—and/or high humidity—and is worsened with physical activity. Heat exhaustion if not treated quickly can be serious and will often lead to heat stroke. If you find yourself experiencing symptoms, try these to help recover:

• Drink water.
• Move to a cool spot in the shade
• Find air conditioning, if possible
• Wear loose clothing.
• Lay down.
• Place cool, wet compresses on your body.
• If vomiting occurs, call for medical assistance right away.

Heat Stroke

If left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs when your body’s temperature reaches 40 degrees or higher and is the most serious of the heat-related symptoms. Suffering from a heat stroke can lead to hot or irritated skin, confusion, irritability and slurred speech. If these symptoms occur, call for medical assistance right away. While waiting for help to arrive:

• Keep the victim in a cool or air conditioned space.
• Fan them.
• Cover the victim with cool, wet cloths or place them in a cool bath.
• Apply ice packs to the neck, armpits or back.
• Hydrate with water or a sports drink.

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps come with exercising at high temperatures. Heat cramps are severe, involuntary muscle spasms that can be very strong. They typically occur in overused muscles like thighs, calves and shoulders. More often than not, they are the result of low electrolytes (which means low levels of potassium, calcium and magnesium) in the body. To treat heat cramps:

• Avoid exercising and rest.
• Drink fluids such as water or sports drinks.
• Replenish sodium with salty foods.

Remember: staying hydrated, especially in high temperatures, is always a good idea. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty, constantly hydrate regularly with water or sports drinks. Foods composed of over 85% water such as cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelon, oranges, spinach and apples are also another great way to stay hydrated. 

ALLIANCE ENERGY SOURCE OFFERS COOL SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR TORONTO AND GTA HOME

Before the high temperatures of summer roll around, Alliance Energy Source is only a call away to help with air conditioner service, from repair to installation in the GTA and Toronto.