Beating the Heat

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Smart Strategies for Extreme Heat Preparedness

As preppers, we prepare for blackouts, blizzards, breakdowns, and more. But one element we’ve been too quiet about is extreme heat. With summer temperatures shattering records across the globe, it’s time to take this silent threat seriously.

Our colleague, TheUrbanPrepper, recently posted a great video from Las Vegas, asking the community how to better prepare for dangerous heat conditions. He’s more used to Seattle’s climate, and found himself dealing with 110°+ temps with little more than water and shade. His call for ideas is one we’re answering right here on the Plains, where sun-scorched days are no stranger.


I love that he uses quite possibly the most important tool in all of prepping:  Ask for help!

I've never met TheUrbanPrepper, I only know him by reputation and have followed his work for some time.  I suggest you do, too.

Core Concepts for Extreme Heat Survival

Let’s start with the basics: staying cool, staying hydrated, and staying smart.

1. Hydration: Know the Science, Not Just the Advice

  • Pre-hydrate: Drink 16–20 oz of water 30 minutes before heading outside.
  • While in the heat: Drink 5–10 oz every 15–20 minutes of exertion.
  • Post-heat: Replenish with water and electrolytes.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugar-heavy drinks that dehydrate you.

Keep oral rehydration salts or a homemade mix of salt, sugar, and clean water on hand.  I happen to like the brand "Ultima" available at many stores including Amazon (not an affiliate link).  Check with your doctor or other medical professional if you have any concerns.

What's most important about the numbers and measurements above is not those hard-and-fast numbers: It's that you now actually have a plan.  You can change that plan if the weather or situation calls for it.

2. Dress for Success

  • Fabric matters: Lightweight, breathable synthetics (poly blends, moisture-wicking) are better than heavy cotton.
  • Colors matter: Light colors reflect heat; dark colors absorb it.
  • Cover up: Long sleeves and pants made of airy fabric actually cool the body and protect from sunburn.
  • Headgear: Wide-brimmed straw or vented hats outperform heavy cloth caps.
The ideas about fabric really stood out to me on a trip I took to Hawaii about 25 years ago:  I purchased some clothing when I arrived and found the material much lighter, breathable, and even thinner fabric than what I was finding in Chicagoland (where I was living at the time).  Fabic matters.

    3. Time and Terrain Tactics

    • Avoid sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. if possible.
    • Use terrain features: North-facing slopes, shade from trees, riverbeds.
    • Urban strategies: Walk in the shade of buildings, use overpasses, or route through air-conditioned spots.
    A quick walk past a body of water can not only be enjoyable but also have a little more refreshingly cool air--especially a Las Vegas fountain or a natural waterfall!

      4. Cooling Aids

      • Battery-powered or hand-held misting fans.
      • Cooling towels soaked in water and worn around the neck.
      • Gel ice packs or frozen water bottles in a backpack can offer cooling relief when pressed against pulse points.
      • In an emergency, a soaked bandana and breeze can save your life.

      5. Communication & Common Sense

      • Check the weather:  Know what you're about to get into, even for a five to fifteen minute walk in town.
      • Use the buddy system: Never go hiking or exploring solo in intense heat.  This goes for in town as well as rural settings.  And remember:  Three is better than two!
      • Leave a note or tell someone where you are going and when you’ll check in.
      • Have backup plans: Carry a spare phone battery or portable charger.
      • If you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, or confused: ask for help immediately.

      6. Vehicle Considerations

      • Never assume your vehicle's AC will hold. Keep:
        • Extra water bottles
        • Reflective windshield shades
        • Battery jump box
        • Window crack vents or solar fans
      • NEVER leave children, pets, or gear vulnerable to heat inside a sealed car.

        7. Travel-Specific Tips

        • Research emergency rooms and cooling centers before your trip.
        • Bring heat-specific first aid, including electrolyte tablets and sunburn relief.
        • Consider a small solar generator or battery power bank to keep fans and devices going.

        8. Rural vs. Urban Adaptation

        On the plains, we prep for long-term survival and wide-open exposure. In cities, heat gets trapped and magnified. Some strategies overlap, but rural folks must focus on water access, shade creation, and self-reliant first aid, while urban travelers benefit from tech tools and proximity to resources.

        Giving Back to the Community

        TheUrbanPrepper has been a leading voice in practical prepping. His question reminds us to address every hazard—not just the dramatic ones.

        Let’s keep the conversation going. If you have tips or tools for surviving the summer sizzle, share them in the comments or email us. Heat is no joke—and no one should face it unprepared.

        Stay safe, stay hydrated, and stay smart.

        - Prepper on the Plains

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