To stay safe during heat waves in Mauldin, South Carolina, follow these important tips based on recent health and safety guidelines:
Hydration and Cooling
Drink water regularly — aim for a cup every hour, even if not thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks as they can lead to dehydration.
Spend time in air-conditioned places whenever possible. If home cooling isn’t adequate, visit malls, libraries, or designated cooling centers.
Use cool, damp cloths or take cool showers to help reduce your body temperature.​
Clothing and Activity
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing that reflects heat.
Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening to avoid peak heat hours, typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spots if working or exercising outside.​
Heat Illness Awareness
Know the signs of heat-related illnesses:
Heat cramps: painful muscle spasms
Heat exhaustion: cool, pale, clammy skin with weakness, nausea, or headache
Heat stroke: medical emergency with hot, dry skin, confusion, or unconsciousness — call 911 immediately
If symptoms occur, move to a cooler place, hydrate, and seek medical attention if severe.​
Special Precautions
Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, even for a few minutes, as cars heat rapidly and can be deadly.
Check on neighbors, older adults, and those without air conditioning regularly during heat waves.
Protect pets by providing shade, fresh water, and avoiding hot pavement to prevent burns on paws.​
Planning Ahead
Prepare for extreme heat by ensuring your air conditioning is functional before heat waves start.
Identify cooling centers or safe locations where you can go if your home becomes too hot.
Stay informed with weather alerts from local meteorologists and the National Weather Service.​
By staying hydrated, dressing appropriately, limiting sun exposure, and monitoring yourself and others for heat illness symptoms, residents of Mauldin can reduce their risk during intense heat waves and stay safe throughout the hottest months.
SOURCES
[1](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)
[2](https://www.gavi.org/vaccineswork/how-stay-safe-during-heat-waves-and-heat-stroke-warning-signs-watch)
[3](https://dph.sc.gov/news/south-carolina-gears-heat-safety-week-temperatures-rise)
[4](https://www.scemd.org/prepare/types-of-disasters/extreme-heat/)
[5](https://dph.sc.gov/news/dph-offers-tips-beating-heat-temperatures-rise)
