Southern California Heat Awareness: Stay Safe

We’re halfway through the year, and that means that summer is upon us. It’s time to think about heat awareness! For this coming season, record temperatures have been predicted, many going into the triple digits. Tuesday, June 15th, was the hottest day of 2021, so far. Unfortunately, this points to more evidence of human-caused climate change.

With the majority of Southern California under a heat advisory, it’s important to know how to be safe. With higher temperatures, our bodies…and our homes are more at risk.


According to the CDC, here are some ways you can stay healthy and safe during a heatwave:

  • Stay indoors, in air-conditioned locations as much as you can.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, primarily water.
  • Take cool showers and baths when you need to cool down.
  • Schedule outdoor activities carefully. Wear loose, lightweight clothing and sunscreen. Also, don’t forget to pace yourself!
  • Have your friends and neighbors check in on you, and return the favor.
  • Don’t leave children or pets in cars.
  • Keep on top of local news for health and safety updates.

Apocalyptic' heat wave scorches U.S. Southwest again | Reuters

Recently, Harvard University provided an extensive resource about preserving energy during times of extreme heat. In addition to keeping yourself safe, here are some ways to protect your home and keep energy conservation in mind during the excessive heat:

  • Turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room.
  • Close window shades and blinds and consider installing window treatments in order to improve insulation in your household.
  • If you’ll be gone from home for more than an hour, unplug anything that isn’t needed such as computers, chargers, printers, etc.
  • If you are working from a laptop, opt to use battery power.
  • Only use dishwashers and clothes washers when the loads are full.
  • Turn off all non-essential lights, especially overhead lights when they are not needed.
  • Don’t forget to turn off swimming pool pumps!
  • Try to use the stove or oven as little as possible. It will make your house hot.
  • Keep hot air from leaking by sealing cracks and openings.
  • Work on increasing your water efficiency. If you’re interested, Earthwise Hauling has a separate post dedicated to improving your water efficiency in the home, if you’re looking for a place to start.
  • Raise the thermostat by a few degrees. For instance, raising your thermostat from 72 to 78 degrees can decrease your energy bill by six to 18 percent.
  • Take cool baths or showers when you need to cool down.
  • Do not rely on a fan as your main source of cooling. If you don’t have air conditioning, find a facility that does.
  • Going off of that, move major appliances away from the thermostat. They can detect heat emissions from your appliances, and will cause your conditioner to run longer.
  • Buy Energy Star products.
  • If you are able, enroll in your local renewable energy program!

Earthwise Hauling is dedicated to helping you create a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Stay indoors and protect yourself! If you need any hauling or demolition work, let the pros do it. Earthwise Hauling can help you out during the summer months so you can stay safe and cool!