Summer heat is a given in Texas, but this summer’s hot Texas temperatures is keeping many of us indoors— which may be a smart decision. Because the safety of our community is top priority, Hospitality Health ER wants to ensure that everyone continues to monitor weather conditions and take steps towards preventing heat-related illnesses.
According to the National Weather Service, the people most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment. But heat exhaustion can land anyone in the emergency room. Heat injuries occur when the body reaches temperatures of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, which can lead to cellular damage after thirty minutes or so of elevated temperatures. To prevent complications from heat exhaustion including headache, nausea and dizziness, our ER recommends the following:
Survival Tips for Extreme Texas Temperatures:
- Check temperatures and heat index before you go outside to ensure you’ll be able to tolerate the heat.
- Stay indoors or find shade whenever possible.
- If you must exercise outdoors, do it in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler. Stay hydrated by taking 10-minute water breaks every 30 minutes.
- Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher whenever you go outdoors.
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
- Whenever possible, bring someone with you if you plan on engaging in rigorous outdoor activities in case an emergency situation arises.
- Always have a water bottle handy to stay hydrated.
Read about foods that will help keep you hydrated in this heat or like Hospitality Health ER Tyler’s Facebook page to keep up with trending healthcare topics.
