Summers in the Greater Memphis metro area, including Tennessee, Arkansas and Louisiana, and Mississippi are usually hot–that’s an expected reality here in the Mid-South. But this summer, record high heat is impacting much of the United States–in fact, over 100 million Americans have been under high heat advisories in the past few weeks, and the weather isn’t expected to cool off anytime soon. The Tub Pros team is taking extra precautions while reglazing and refinishing kitchen and bath surfaces in the homes around these parts. We encourage all to carry extra liquids, take cool down breaks in the later part of the afternoon, and get an early morning start whenever possible. 

This high heat and humidity isn’t just unpleasant–in fact, it’s downright dangerous. That’s because high temperatures can have serious health effects, and that makes it especially important to find ways to stay cool despite the hot weather. One of the best things you can do to help keep your family safe is to prepare–knowing what to watch out for and how to be ready can make a big difference. 

Now, we’ll break down some of the key things you should know to help you stay safe this summer, and let you know how our professional refinishing services at The Tub Pros can make your home beautiful, safe and relaxing. 

What counts as extreme heat, and why is it dangerous? 

While a heat wave can be defined as a series of days that are hotter and more humid than usual for a particular time of year in a particular location, there is a more exact definition for what kinds of temperatures call for Excessive Heat Warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS). A local NWS office often issues an Excessive Heat Warning when the weather is predicted to have a “feel’s like” temperature of 105° or more for over two days. 

Extreme heat can be dangerous because it can cause your body temperature to rise. While your body usually cools itself by sweating, your body may not be able to continually cool you down during intense conditions. And when your body temperature rises too much, it can lead to health problems that can damage your brain, lungs, heart, or other organs. 

How can I prepare for extreme heat? 

One of the best things you can do to stay safe during extreme heat is to make sure you’re drinking enough fluids. While beverages that are sugary, alcoholic, or caffeinated might make matters worse during extreme heat, plenty of water, along with sports drinks if you’re sweating heavily, are the best choices. Ensure that you have plenty of water available, including some in an emergency preparedness kit. During the summer, you might add a mini emergency kit to your car containing electrolyte drinks, sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen, too. In general, all things that may be needed while on the run, during the dog days of summer. 

Please ensure pets have enough water, too. They can die of heat stroke, just like humans. Best to avoid outdoor activity, like walking the dog or working in the garden, during the hottest part of the day. When you do go out, stick to the shade, and wear a hat, sunglasses, a wet handkerchief around your neck, and sunscreen. Wear loose clothing, and choose light colors. And remember, never leave another person or pet in a parked car, where temperatures can skyrocket in minutes and cause death.  

Check that your air conditioning unit is up and running efficiently, too–if your home doesn’t have one, look into public air-conditioned locations near you–like museums, libraries, the mall, or stores–where you could spend time to cool off. State-run cooling centers may also be an option. And while fans might offer some relief, be ready to take a cool bath or shower, which can help lower your body temperature much more quickly. Oh, did we say bath and shower? Well, did you know that The Tub Pros specializes in refinishing tubs and regrouting, reglazing, and recoloring tiles in the shower or bathroom?

What heat-related illnesses should I be aware of?

Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are some of the most dangerous possible effects of exposure to extreme heat. On average, over 67,000 people in the US have to visit the emergency room every year for heat-related illnesses. 

Heat cramps often present as extreme sweating, accompanied by muscle pain or spasms, especially during physical activity in the heat. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke, on the other hand, are more extreme. Someone with heat exhaustion may be cold and clammy, nauseated, dizzy, tired, or weak, while someone with heat stroke may have a body temperature of 103 or more, a rapid pulse, nausea, confusion, or loss of consciousness. 

While heat cramps may resolve on their own, it’s a good idea to see a doctor if they don’t subside in an hour. For symptoms of heat exhaustion, it’s also important to see a doctor after an hour with no improvement. Heat stroke, though, is an emergency–call 911 or head for the nearest hospital emergency room. 

Why is summer a good time for counter and sink reglazing near me in the Greater Memphis area? 

During the summer your home is naturally warmer inside and this includes the studs, walls, and all the other construction materials that make up your home. The warmer temperature of these materials makes applications easier and drying faster. At the Tub Pros, we know that when it comes to sink, tile, and bathtub refinishing, Memphis residents appreciate that The Tub Pros is a Better Business Bureau and Angie’s List Member. They trust our professional services and written warranty to get their homes looking and functioning at their very best. Extreme heat can be stressful as you worry about keeping your family, pets, and home safe, but The Tub Pros will make your bathroom and kitchen a “cool” place to be. 

Being stuck in your home when it looks worn or dated can add stress to your life, and we’re here to help refresh your space so it looks great and gives you peace of mind. Our services–including tub, shower, tile, counter, and kitchen sink reglazing–can give your home a fresh look for a fraction of the price and hassle of a remodel. And if you’re wondering “how long does bathtub reglazing last?”, you’ll be glad to know that a reglazed surface can last just as long as an original finish–meaning your home will look great for years to come. 

That’s not all we can do–our accessibility features can provide easier access to a cool bath or shower for every member of your family. And for those with Jacuzzi, spa, or jetted tubs that are looking a little worse for the wear, who may be wondering “how do you refinish a jetted tub?”, you should know that refinishing a jetted tub is totally possible–and you might even find you still enjoy using it in the heat. 

Ready to get started on your kitchen and bath refinishing today? Give The Tub Pros a call at (901) 871-8827 for a free estimate, or use our online contact tool–we make homes look “cool” in the heat of the summer. Additional free value added information can be found in our website article library. 

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