Reduce sun and activity
Use available shade and limit strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
SHELTER & TEMPERATURE · PRACTICAL PREPAREDNESS
Staying cooler when the power is out.
Use a cooling destination, water, and check-ins as the foundation. Treat equipment as support.
Make cooling the priority.
Plan access to air conditioning.
If you cannot keep safely cool at home, move to an air-conditioned place. Contact local emergency management or 211 for help finding a cooling location.
Reduce heat while you arrange the next step.
Keep drinking water accessible
Drink fluids regularly. Follow your clinician’s instructions if you have fluid restrictions.
Check on people
Include those living alone and anyone with health conditions that increase heat risk.
Use fans within their limits
CDC advises using indoor fans only below 90°F. Above that, a fan can increase body temperature. A reading below 90°F does not guarantee safety for everyone.
An airflow option for compatible battery owners.
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RYOBI ONE+ 18V 7.5-inch Hybrid Fan PCL811B (opens in a new tab)
A portable airflow option to consider if you already own compatible ONE+ batteries.
Check before buying: Tool-only: plan compatible battery and charger purchases. A fan does not replace air conditioning; follow the heat guidance above.
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Get help if someone is becoming unwell.
Overheating can cause dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache, or other symptoms. Seek medical help when needed; call 911 for a medical emergency. Do not delay help while trying to make a cooling gadget work.
Sources & editorial notes
Sources checked September 10, 2026. Survivor Ready uses AI-assisted drafting and illustrative imagery. This guide has not received independent expert review. Follow local emergency instructions. General information does not replace advice tailored to your household.