Quick cardWeather and disasters
Weather and disasters

Extreme heat without air conditioning

Summer blackout or broken AC. It's one of the biggest risks in many parts of the U.S.

Call 911
Do this nowTap each step when done
  1. 1Confusion, hot skin, or fainting? Call 911 and cool the person down.
  2. 2Cool the body, not the air. Damp cloths on the neck, armpits, and groin.
  3. 3Drink water even if you're not thirsty. No alcohol.
  4. 4Close the curtains on the sunny side. Open windows only if it's cooler outside.
  5. 5Go to a cooling center: call 311 (in many cities) or check your city or county website.
  6. 6Pets: cool water in two or more bowls. Walk dogs only early in the morning.
1. Damp cloths: neck, armpits, and groin   2. Drink water even if you're not thirsty   3. Close the curtains on the sunny side   4. Cooling center: call 311 or your city's line
Don't
  • Don't rely only on a fan.
  • Don't leave anyone in a car, not even for a minute.
  • Don't cook indoors during the hot hours.
  • Don't wait "one more day" to leave.
Have ready
  • Indoor thermometer.
  • Towels to wet and a battery-powered fan.
  • Drinks with electrolytes.
  • Cooling center located. Does it accept pets?
Key factHeat stroke in dogs: heavy panting, drooling, very red gums. Shade, cool water, and a vet.

More detail

Ch. 10 · Natural disastersOpen chapterCh. 23 · Prolonged collapseOpen chapter
Next urgent cardUnconscious person / not breathing: CPR and AED

Reviewed: Nov 2026 · Sources: Chapter 10 · Natural disasters