The Summer Heat Wave Has Officially Hit Texas
DALLAS—The dreaded summer heat wave is officially here, and Texans everywhere can feel it. With temperatures reaching in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, Texans need to take precautionary measures to beat the heat. The Red Cross has shared some tips for surviving Texas summer heat!
Each summer thousands of people suffer from heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke. Listening to the weather forecasts warnings, being aware of impending heat waves, and discussing an action plan for heat related emergencies with your family, could all help to defend against the unrelenting heat.
Tips For Surviving Texas Summer Heat
“The summer heat can affect those in- and outdoors. Heat waves often cause power outages, leaving people without air conditioning and therefore susceptible to the elements,” said Keith Rhodes, chief executive officer, American Red Cross North Texas Region. “When this happens, people should go to a library, mall, or somewhere else that has a working air conditioner to keep cool.” By community members looking out for each other and adhering to heat precautions, Texans can survive another Texas summer.
SYMPTOMS OF HEAT RELATED EMERGENCY:
Heat related emergencies do not always appear as you would think. Individual symptoms may include:
• Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin
• Heavy sweating
• Headache
• Nausea/Vomiting
• Dizziness/Loss of Consciousness
• Weakness
What You Should Do If You’re Suffering From a Heat Related Emergency
If you see someone suffering from heat stress, follow these quick steps:
1. If losing consciousness or vomiting, immediately call 9-1-1.
2. Relocate to an air conditioned or shaded area.
3. Slowly drink cool water.
4. Apply ice or cold towels to head, neck, groin, wrists, ankles and armpits.
Download Free Red Cross First Aid App
For more safety tips throughout the year, download the Red Cross First Aid App. The app provides instant access on how to treat common emergencies as well as a hospital locator which is helpful for travelers. The Emergency App is a single ‘go-to’ source for weather alerts and safety tips for everything from a power outage, to a severe thunderstorm, to a hurricane. All Red Cross apps can be downloaded for free in app stores by searching for ‘American Red Cross’ or by going to redcross.org/apps.
