Staying Safe in the Texas Heat

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Things are heating up in Texas. By the looks of it, this is just the beginning of a long, hot summer. Heat indexes and temperatures have already hit triple digits in many places across the state. For Texas natives and Texas transplants alike, it’s a great time to review ways to stay safe in our extreme environment.

Be careful when heading outside for afternoon activities. Adults age 65 and older are particularly susceptible to heat stress, often due to medical conditions or prescription medicines.

The CDC lists these signs to watch out and what to do if you’re experiencing them.

Heat exhaustion (water or salt depletion)

What to look for: Heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale, and clammy skin, fast or weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, fainting

How to fight it: Move to a cooler location, lie down and loosen your clothing, apply cool, wet clothes to your body, and sip water. If you have vomited and it continues, then you should seek medical attention immediately.

Heat stroke (failure of the body’s ability to regulate its temperature)

What to look for: body temperature above 103 degrees, red, dry or moist skin, unconsciousness

How to fight it: Call 911 immediately and move to a cooler environment. Apply cooling cloths or a bath is okay. Do not drink any fluids.