Red Cross discusses how you can prepare for the extreme heat

TULSA, Okla. — With the extreme heat, FOX23 spoke with the Red Cross on Tuesday about what you can do to make sure you’re prepared.

With or without direct access to air conditioning, the Red Cross said the most important first step while in extreme temperatures is to have a plan.

“Knowing what you and your family will do ahead of time will make all the difference,” Matt Trotter, American Red Cross said.

Whether it’s a public library, cooling shelter, or a friend’s house, Trotter said it’s crucial to give your body a break to recover from the heat for at least a few hours a day.

“Even if your AC does not work or it is not the best, you need to have a plan of where you will go, where you can access air conditioning,” he said.

The Red Cross also said there are a few things you can do to prevent overheating.

“If you don’t have AC or you power goes out you can take a cool bath you can use fans up to about 90 degrees inside,” Trotter said.

However, he said you can’t rely solely on a fan if it gets warmer than that indoors.

“Past that point a fan will actually make you hotter than cool you off, so it’s good to keep in mind as your home gets warmer,” Trotter said.

Trotter added that it’s crucial to check in on one another this time of year.

You can find information on warning signs of heat related illnesses and prevention on the American Red Cross website HERE .