Theme park days are already a challenge during peak season — nothing like a heat index of 115 degrees to make them even worse.
Almost 200 million Americans, including those in Florida, have been sweltering under extreme heat warnings, watches or advisories over the last few days due to a high-pressure “dome” trapping heat.
For those heading to Florida’s theme parks in the upcoming days, here’s how you can survive the brutal summer weather.
What is the busiest time for Florida theme parks?
Honestly, when are the theme parks not busy?
However, the peak season for Florida’s theme parks is considered March through August, which includes spring break, summer vacation, and holidays.
Who is most at risk for extreme heat?
According to a report from the nonprofit Florida Policy Institute, Florida has the highest number of heat-related illnesses in the nation.
The Sunshine State saw 31,011 emergency room visits and hospitalizations between 2018 and 2022, based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
People more at risk from extreme heat include:
And don’t forget any furry friends, who don’t like the heat any more than you do and have fewer ways to cool off.
How do I keep cool at theme parks?
Don’t let the heat and humidity keep you away from the fun of Florida theme parks. Here are eight tips about staying cool, even in Florida temperatures:
Check the weather before you leave for theme parks
Before you even head out for your theme park trip, look at weather reports for the entire day to prepare appropriately. Is it going to rain later? Bring an umbrella. Is the temperature going to rise significantly? Pack extra water bottles and wear the proper clothing.
Be aware that the weather can easily change throughout the day and differ slightly from reports in the early morning. Pack accordingly for your trip.
Be aware of extreme heat warnings
An extreme heat warning is issued when dangerous heat is happening or is about to happen. Residents are advised to take action.
“An extreme heat warning is issued when extremely dangerous heat conditions are expected or occurring,” the National Weather Service said.
There are slight differences around the state on when extreme heat warnings are issued, with Central Florida issuing an alert if:
See latest weather alerts, warnings issued in Florida
Dress in light, comfy clothing
Stick to light colors and materials. As much as you might look good in dark clothing, you’ll regret it when it absorbs the intense power of the Florida sun.
You should also dress light, avoiding long sleeves and pants if possible. For bonus points, bring a hat to protect your face and scalp from the sun.
Wear sunscreen, reapply throughout the day
At least two people die of skin cancer in the United States every hour, and one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they turn 70, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation.
Don’t let that be you. Avoid getting sunburns by applying sunscreen before heading to the parks, and make sure to reapply throughout the day.
Avoid going to theme parks during the middle part of the day
Avoid visiting the theme park during the middle of the day, when temperatures peak and the parks are typically at their busiest.
If possible, try getting to the park early, then take a midday break and come back in the evening when temperatures drop again.
Stay indoors and seek an air-conditioned building, if possible
While most sections of theme parks are outdoors, try to spend as much time indoors and in a/c as possible.
This can mean exploring the stores a little more, enjoying a treat at a café or attending some of the shows.
Stay hydrated as much as possible
This may seem obvious, but drinking water is crucial to staying cool in Florida. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water.
If you don’t want to pay for bottled water constantly, utilize the theme park water fountains to fill up a reusable water bottle. Most quick-service locations and kiosks will also offer free cups of water.
Avoid alcoholic, sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can be dehydrating, as tempting as they might be.
Take longer and more frequent breaks
When you do find yourself getting overheated and overwhelmed, listen to your body. Take breaks whenever you need to.
Map out the best places to take a break at the parks. Florida theme parks, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld, have maps of their parks posted online. You can use these maps to figure out which areas are shaded or air-conditioned.
Recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
The initial signs of heat-related illness are muscle cramps and thirst, according to the National Weather Service. This can progress to heat exhaustion, which has symptoms that look like:
“If you’re experiencing heat exhaustion for an extended period of time, it can lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke can come on quickly if it’s very hot or you’re overexerting yourself,” Healthline said.
According to the CDC, heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. The symptoms of heat stroke include:
Seek out first aid stations inside the theme parks if needed
Do not hesitate to look at park maps for first aid stations in case you get overheated or notice signs of heat-related illness.
This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Going to Florida theme parks during extreme heat dome? 10 tips to staying cool, safe
Reporting by Samantha Neely and Cheryl McCloud, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Florida Today
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
