--- title: How to keep your family and pets safe during hot weather description: As summer temperatures rise, keeping your family and pets safe should be your top priority. Here are some things you should know about extreme heat. image: https://www.thesilverlining.com/hubfs/How%20to%20keep%20your%20family%20and%20pets%20safe%20during%20hot%20weather%20featured%20image.png --- [![West Bend Insurance](https://www.thesilverlining.com/hs-fs/hubfs/HS%20TEST%20LOGO.png?width=233&height=65&name=HS%20TEST%20LOGO.png "West Bend Insurance")](https://www.thesilverlining.com) ![toggle mobile navigation](https://www.thesilverlining.com/hs-fs/file-1692861603-png/images/nav-toggle.png) [![West Bend Insurance](https://www.thesilverlining.com/hs-fs/file-1696307430-png/images/logo-west-bend.png)](https://www.thesilverlining.com/) [Find An Agent](https://www.thesilverlining.com/find-an-insurance-agent) [![West Bend Cares Blog](https://www.thesilverlining.com/hs-fs/hubfs/images/West-Bend-Cares-Blog-WhiteBackground.png?width=400&height=80&name=West-Bend-Cares-Blog-WhiteBackground.png)](https://www.thesilverlining.com/west-bend-blog) As summer temperatures climb, enjoying the sunshine comes with responsibilities, including keeping your family and pets safe. While warm weather is often a welcome change from cold and snow, it can also pose serious health risks. According to the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)](https://ephtracking.cdc.gov/Applications/heatTracker/), more than 700 people in the U.S. die each year due to heat-related causes. With that in mind, understanding how to recognize heat dangers and taking preventive steps are essential. ## Recognizing heat illness in people Time outdoors is appealing during summer, but excessive heat can cause dangerous health issues. It’s critical to recognize symptoms early. **Heat exhaustion symptoms:** - Confusion - Dizziness or fainting - Dark-colored urine - Fatigue - Headache - Nausea or vomiting - Muscle cramps - Profuse sweating - Rapid heartbeat If you or someone else is experiencing these symptoms, move to a cooler environment immediately. **Heat stroke symptoms:** - Throbbing headache - No sweating - Hot, red skin - Rapid, shallow breathing - Muscle weakness - Seizures or unconsciousness Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention as it can damage vital organs. ## Tips for keeping your family safe Enjoy the summer weather with your family while keeping these safety tips in mind: - **Hydrate often**. The amount of water each person needs varies depending on body type and activity level. Anywhere between 68 to 135 ounces of water per day is a good baseline. Add flavor packets if you don’t like the taste of water. - **Avoid peak heat hours**. Limit strenuous activity between 11:00am and 3:00pm. - **Prepare for power outages**. Power outages are more common in the summer months. Stock food, water, and medication in case your air-conditioning goes out. - **Wear appropriate clothing**. Wear hats, sunglasses, and light, loose-fitting clothing. - **Keep your home and vehicle cool**. Use blinds and sunshades. Consider steering wheel covers. - **Never leave children in vehicles**. Temperatures inside a car can become deadly in just 10 minutes. - **Check on elderly neighbors**. They’re more vulnerable during heatwaves. ## Protecting your pets in the heat Your pets are just as vulnerable to summer dangers. Here's how to keep them safe: - **Limit outdoor time**. Walk pets early or late in the day. On hot days, cut your usual walk by a third. - **Watch for overheating**. Pets cool through their feet and by panting. Warning signs of overheating include drooling, unsteadiness, and excessive panting. In severe cases, poor oxygen flow or even death can occur. - **Mind the pavement**. Asphalt and concrete can burn paws. Test with your hand or use protective paw wear. - **Never leave pets in a hot car**. Even with windows cracked, temperatures rise quickly. - **Keep them hydrated**. Always have fresh water available. - **Use cooling gear**. Consider cooling mats, wraps, or vests. Fans alone may not help much. - **Watch the grooming**. Avoid shaving dogs’ fur too short, as their coats provide both warmth and cooling and protect them from sunburn. Consult a groomer for summer trims. - **Be yard aware**. Keep pets away from treated lawns, mulch, [fertilizers](https://www.thesilverlining.com/westbendcares/blog/common-chemicals-to-avoid-in-your-lawn-care-routine), or harmful garden plants. - **Avoid sharing picnic food**. Many popular picnic items can be harmful to pets. Bones, fatty meats, and corn cobs can cause gastrointestinal distress or blockages. - **Use pet life jackets**. Not all dogs swim well. A bright life jacket improves visibility and safety around water. - **Prepare for storms**. Loud weather can stress pets. Create a quiet space and use white noise like music or fans. **Topics:** [Family Safety](https://www.thesilverlining.com/west-bend-blog/tag/family-safety) [Pet Safety](https://www.thesilverlining.com/west-bend-blog/tag/pet-safety) [Weather](https://www.thesilverlining.com/west-bend-blog/tag/weather) ### About the Author Scott Stueber, CPCU, CISR, AAI ![Scott Stueber, CPCU, CISR, AAI](https://www.thesilverlining.com/hubfs/images/wbcares-Scott-Stueber1.jpg) Scott Stueber is a 26-year insurance veteran employed by West Bend since 1997. He holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh. His insurance expertise is backed by several designations he’s earned over the years: Accredited Advisor Insurance (AAI), Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR), and Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU). He’s also a... Show More Scott Stueber is a 26-year insurance veteran employed by West Bend since 1997. He holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh. His insurance expertise is backed by several designations he’s earned over the years: Accredited Advisor Insurance (AAI), Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR), and Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU). He’s also a licensed insurance agent. Scott has been sharing his expert advice through the successful West Bend Cares blog since October 2012. He’s authored hundreds of helpful and relevant articles on a variety of topics including home, auto, and business insurance; claim prevention; and family safety tips. When he’s not creating content, Scott enjoys spending time with his family (including their lovable, orange tabby cat, Toulouse), traveling, riding his motorcycle, and playing Xbox. 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