Under A Heat Advisory? Here's What To Do If Your Air Conditioner Goes Out

Believe it or not, extreme heat causes a surprising number of deaths each year. In fact, heat waves kill more people than any other weather-related cause. Therefore, if your home is under an excessive heat warning -- which means that the heat index is at 105 degree Fahrenheit for more than three hours a day for two consecutive days, or if the heat index climbs to 115 degrees or higher at any point -- then it's obviously very dangerous for your air conditioner to stop working. If you find that your air conditioner has quit working during one of these dangerous advisory periods, then it's critical to follow these steps to keep yourself and your family as safe as possible.

1. Get Out of the House if Possible

If possible, it's best to get out of the house until you can have your air conditioner fixed. If you can go to a friend, family member or neighbor's home until you're able to get your air conditioner fixed, that would obviously be best. You might also find that it's safer to sit in your vehicle with the air conditioner running than it is to stay in your home during this type of excessive heat.

2. Call a 24-Hour Air Conditioning Service

Unfortunately, these types of tragedies never seem to happen during the middle of the average workday. Even if it's a holiday, weekend or a time outside of business hours, however, it's important to get your air conditioner back working as soon as possible. Luckily, a 24 hour air conditioning service should send someone out at any time of the night or day, regardless of what day of the week it is, to get your air conditioner back working quickly.

3. Focus on Keeping Yourself Cool

It can seem impossible to keep yourself and your family members cool when your air conditioner isn't working, but personal fans, wet cloths and cold drinks can help. Make sure that everyone has a way of staying as cool as possible during this time period.

4. Learn the Signs

Know the signs that you or a family member are getting too hot and are at risk. Paleness, dizziness, altered mind state and other symptoms can all be signs that you or a family member are getting dangerously hot. Don't ignore these signs; instead, go to the doctor or hospital as soon as possible, and stay out of the house until you have your air conditioner repaired.

Realizing that your air conditioner isn't working during a dangerous heat period can be frightening. If you find yourself in this situation, it's important to follow these tips to stay as safe as possible.