Stay Informed and Be Prepared

Extreme heat can affect anyone, and conditions can become dangerous quickly. Review the Heat Response Plan, monitor local weather alerts, and take steps to protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors.

Heat Response Plan

Stay Safe in the East Texas Heat

Spending time outdoors is part of summer in East Texas, but prolonged exposure to high temperatures can become dangerous. Heat-related illness occurs when the body can no longer cool itself properly. Anyone can become sick from the heat, but older adults, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, athletes, and people with certain medical conditions may face a greater risk. CDC

Fortunately, heat-related illnesses are largely preventable. Planning ahead, drinking enough fluids, taking breaks, and recognizing early symptoms can help protect you and those around you.

Follow Water, Rest and Shade

When working, exercising, or spending extended time outside, remember three important words:

Water

Drink water regularly throughout the day rather than waiting until you feel thirsty. Bring enough water for everyone participating in outdoor activities and limit beverages that may contribute to dehydration.

Rest

Take frequent breaks, especially during physically demanding activities. People who are not accustomed to working in hot conditions should gradually increase their activity and take additional breaks as their bodies adjust.

Shade

Move into the shade or an air-conditioned space whenever possible. Outdoor workers should have access to a shaded recovery area, while indoor workers exposed to heat should be able to rest away from heat-producing equipment. OSHA

Plan Outdoor Activities Carefully

Try to schedule strenuous activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as the early morning or evening. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing, along with sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.

Check the weather forecast and local heat alerts before spending extended time outdoors. Remember that humidity can make the temperature feel significantly hotter and reduce the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating. The National Weather Service uses tools such as the Heat Index and HeatRisk to communicate potential heat-related dangers. National Weather Service

Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion can develop after the body loses too much water and salt through sweating. Warning signs may include:

• Heavy sweating 
• Headache or dizziness 
• Weakness or fatigue 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Muscle cramps 
• Cool, pale or clammy skin 
• A fast or weak pulse

Move the person to a cooler location, loosen unnecessary clothing, apply cool wet cloths, and offer small sips of water. Seek medical attention when symptoms worsen or do not improve.

Heat Stroke Is a Medical Emergency

Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature. Warning signs may include confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, very hot skin, or a body temperature of 103 degrees or higher.

Call 911 immediately if heat stroke is suspected.

Move the person to a shaded or air-conditioned area and begin cooling them with cold wet cloths, ice packs, or cool water while waiting for emergency assistance. Do not give fluids to someone who is unconscious or unable to drink safely. CDC

Never Leave Anyone in a Parked Vehicle

Never leave a child, older adult, person with a disability, or pet unattended in a parked vehicle—even for a few minutes. Vehicle interiors can become dangerously hot very quickly, and partially opening the windows does not provide adequate protection. National Weather Service

Always check the back seat before locking your vehicle, keep parked vehicles locked so children cannot enter them, and immediately call 911 if you see someone trapped inside a hot vehicle.

Check on Family, Friends and Neighbors

During periods of extreme heat, check on people who live alone or may not have reliable air conditioning. Encourage them to stay hydrated and spend time in a cooler location when needed.

Pay particular attention to older adults, infants and young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions, and those who work or exercise outdoors. CDC

Protect Yourself Before Symptoms Begin

Heat-related illness can develop quickly. Do not wait until you feel sick to take precautions.

Drink water, take regular breaks, seek shade, monitor the weather, and watch for signs of illness in yourself and others. A few simple actions can help everyone enjoy a safer and healthier East Texas summer.