We're having a heat wave

We are facing a heat wave in Raleigh today. As I write this post it is already 104 degrees outside.The Triangle could tie the record for the hottest temperature ever at Raleigh-Durham International Airport if the mercury slips one degree above the predicted high of 104 degrees for Friday and Saturday.

It is also very hot in my upstairs at my house. This is when my PC is located and where I usually spend a lot of time in front of my computer. As I gaze at the thermostat it records that the temperature is 84 degrees. The repair man came today to replace the motor in our central air unit. Now the air conditioner is working hard to bring the temp down in our upstairs,

This evening I begin teaching the final weekend of the classes for the Carolina's School of Ministry. Students from North and South Carolina will meet me a a few hours to begin our evening class and classes tomorrow morning.

To deal with the heat I recommend the following:

Slow down. Reduce, eliminate or reschedule strenuous activities for the coolest time of day. At-risk individuals should stay in the coolest available place.

Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.

Put less fuel on your inner fires. Foods, including proteins, that increase metabolic heat production also increase water loss.

Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty. Your body needs water to keep cool. People who have epilepsy or heart, kidney or liver disease; are on fluid-restrictive diets or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before increasing their consumption of fluids.

Spend more time in air-conditioned places. Air conditioning markedly reduces the danger from the heat. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, spending some time each day, particularly during the hottest weather, in an air-conditioned environment affords some protection. I strongly encourage everyone to seek an air conditioned CHURCH this coming Sunday.

At North Raleigh Church of the Nazarene our church is air conditioned with comfortable chairs, friendly people and a prayer soaked atmosphere to encounter God.