Why Texas Summers Are More Dangerous Than You Think

Texas summers are not known to treat people kindly. Besides the inconvenience of constantly sweating after taking one foot out the door, extreme heat can come with some pretty nasty side effects to your health.

Read More: Texas Emergency Weather Preparedness for Dummies

Thanks to Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), there are some precautions you can take when venturing outside this summer in Texas.

Staying Cool in Texas Summers

First of all, senior citizens, young children, and those with ongoing chronic diseases are most at risk for heat-related illnesses. It's essential that these people have access to air conditioning when the temps continue to rise.

If you have to make errands during days of high heat, make sure you set aside time to cool off in public spaces with AC like malls, shopping centers, or libraries. If you are at home with no access to AC, find and open any windows but keep the shades down to keep direct sunlight from getting in.

Above all else, staying hydrated is key. This means drinking plenty of fluids like water, fruit juice, coconut water, or electrolyte-replenishing sports drinks.

How to Spot Heat Illnesses

Symptoms of heat illness include the following:

• Muscle cramps
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headaches

If you experience any of these while outside in the Texas heat, you should immediately find shade or get inside with AC and slowly rehydrate with water.

Dangerous Vehicles in Summer

A parked car can be highly dangerous as it can heat up to deadly temps in just a matter of minutes in the summer. As young children are especially vulnerable to heat, you should never leave them unattended and always crack windows/keep the AC on while they're in the car.

According to DSHS, deaths caused by heat stroke occur most in people older than 50. If you have any family members or neighbors over this age, it's best to check on them at least twice a day and ensure they are drinking fluids and are staying in an air conditioned room.