How to Stay Safe During Heat Waves in Greer

To stay safe during heat waves in Greer, South Carolina in 2025, residents should follow several important precautions recommended by health and safety experts:

Key Safety Tips

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water regularly, even if not feeling thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages that can dehydrate.

Stay Cool: Spend time in air-conditioned places such as homes, malls, libraries, or designated cooling centers, especially during peak heat hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If no AC is available, use cool showers or damp cloths to reduce body temperature.

Avoid Strenuous Outdoor Activities: Limit outdoor work or exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Plan walks or recreational activities for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.

Wear Appropriate Clothing: Choose loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection when outdoors.

Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Regularly check on older adults, children, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses or disabilities, as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

Recognize Heat-Related Illness Signs: Be aware of symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, or clammy skin. If symptoms occur, move to a cool place, rest, and hydrate immediately. Call for medical help if heat stroke is suspected.

Never Leave Children or Pets Alone in Vehicles: Cars can heat up dangerously fast even with windows cracked, risking deadly heat stroke.

Use Fans Carefully: Fans can help if temperatures are below 95°F but may increase heat risk in extreme heat conditions.

Plan Ahead for Power Outages: Heat waves may cause power outages; have backup plans for staying cool and hydrated.

Local Support

Residents can find local cooling centers and emergency resources if home cooling is unavailable.

Stay informed on weather alerts via the National Weather Service and South Carolina Department of Public Health during heat waves.

Adopting these precautions can significantly reduce risks of heat-related illnesses and help the Greer community stay safe during extreme summer heat in 2025.

SOURCES

(https://www.redcross.org/local/south-carolina/about-us/news-and-events/press-releases/sweltering-heat–red-cross-shares-safety-tips-to-stay-cool-in-so.html)
(https://www.gavi.org/vaccineswork/how-stay-safe-during-heat-waves-and-heat-stroke-warning-signs-watch)(https://www.ready.gov/heat)
(https://dph.sc.gov/news/dph-offers-tips-beating-heat-temperatures-rise)
(https://www.santeecooper.com/global-news/2025/052025-Recognizing-Heat-Safety-Week-May-1923-2025.aspx)