Surviving Heat Waves on Long Island: Tips from PuroClean of Huntington

Heat waves are becoming more frequent across the country, and Long Island is no exception. In recent weeks, temperatures across Suffolk and Nassau County have climbed into the 90s, with heat indexes well over 100°F on some days. High humidity and poor air circulation make it even harder to cool off. With more heat advisories expected this summer, it’s essential to know how to prepare your home and protect your health.

At PuroClean of Huntington, we’re committed to helping our neighbors stay safe year-round—not only during emergencies like floods or fires, but also through extreme weather events like heat waves. Read on for practical steps to prepare your home and stay cool when the heat hits.

Prepare Your Long Island Home for a Heat Wave

Before the next wave of heat strikes, take steps to reduce your home’s indoor temperature and energy use:

• Use blackout curtains or blinds to block out direct sunlight, especially on south- and west-facing windows.
• Ensure that your HVAC system is clean and working efficiently. Dirty filters and neglected units have to work harder, driving up energy costs and reducing cooling power.
• Install ceiling fans and set them to rotate counter-clockwise. This helps create a cooling breeze throughout the room.
• Seal air leaks around doors and windows to keep hot air out and cool air in.
• Unplug devices and appliances that aren’t in use. Electronics produce small amounts of heat even when idle, which adds up throughout the day.

10 Tips to Stay Cool During a Long Island Heat Wave

Whether you’re at home in Huntington, Dix Hills, or out east in Stony Brook, use these strategies to keep your body temperature down and avoid heat-related health issues:

1. Find the coolest space in your home
   Lower levels like basements stay naturally cooler, and ground floors are cooler than upper stories. Stay in these areas during the hottest parts of the day.
2. Stay hydrated
   Drink more water than usual—even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid drinks that contribute to dehydration, such as alcohol, coffee, and sugary beverages.
3. Eat lighter meals
   Large, protein-rich meals raise your body temperature through increased metabolism. Opt for fruits, vegetables, and smaller meals throughout the day. Spicy foods can also help by encouraging perspiration, which cools the body.
4. Take lukewarm showers
   Showers just below body temperature (around 98.6°F) offer better long-term cooling than cold ones, which can cause your body to produce more heat afterward.
5. Wear breathable clothing
   Stick to loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothing. Avoid dark colors and synthetic fabrics that trap heat.
6. Limit strenuous activity
   Avoid heavy chores or workouts during the afternoon. If needed, schedule them in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.
7. Cool your pulse points
   Apply cold compresses or ice packs to your wrists, neck, or the inside of your elbows. These areas have blood vessels close to the skin, making cooling more effective.
8. Spritz with water and use fans
   Lightly mist yourself with water and sit near a fan. This mimics the body’s natural cooling process through evaporation and can help lower body temperature quickly.
9. Reduce internal heat sources
   Avoid using your oven, stove, or dryer during the day. Turn off lights when not needed—especially incandescent bulbs, which give off more heat than LED alternatives.
10. Look out for pets
    Dogs, cats, and other pets can suffer from heat stroke just like humans. Watch for symptoms like excessive drooling, lethargy, or vomiting. Move them to a cool, shaded area and offer fresh water immediately. If symptoms persist, contact a veterinarian.

Keep Your Home Safe and Efficient Year-Round

Proper ventilation and insulation play a big role in how well your home handles extreme temperatures. If your attic or HVAC system has been affected by water or mold in the past, its cooling efficiency may be compromised. The team at PuroClean of Huntington provides professional water damage restoration, mold remediation, and fire cleanup services to help protect your home and health—especially during the hottest months of the year.

If you suspect your property is suffering from hidden moisture, poor airflow, or past damage, let us help. Our team proudly serves homeowners and businesses throughout Suffolk and Nassau County.

Call PuroClean of Huntington at (631) 402-9700 to schedule a consultation or learn more about how we can help your home stay safe and comfortable all year long.