With dangerously hot temperatures expected across North Texas over the next several days, Glenn Heights officials are urging residents to take precautions as heat indices climb into dangerous levels.
The City of Glenn Heights issued a heat advisory this week, encouraging residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and check on older neighbors, children, and pets.
The Texas Department of State Health Services says extreme heat is one of the leading weather-related causes of death in the United States, but many heat-related illnesses can be prevented by taking simple precautions.
“The best defense against heat-related illness is prevention,” the department advises.
Health officials recommend drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even before you begin to feel thirsty, and spending as much time as possible in air-conditioned buildings. Residents should also wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit outdoor work or exercise to the early morning or evening hours when temperatures are lower.
People who must work outside should take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas and drink water regularly.
Older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic medical conditions and outdoor workers are among those most vulnerable to heat-related illness, according to the department.
Officials are also reminding residents never to leave children or pets unattended inside a parked vehicle. Interior temperatures can rise rapidly, even when outside temperatures seem manageable.
Residents should be familiar with the warning signs of heat-related illness. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache, weakness, and muscle cramps. If untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, a life-threatening medical emergency.
Signs of heatstroke include confusion, loss of consciousness, a body temperature above 103 degrees, and hot, red skin. Anyone experiencing symptoms of heatstroke should receive immediate medical attention by calling 911.
In addition to protecting themselves, Glenn Heights officials encourage residents to check on neighbors, especially older adults and those who may not have reliable air conditioning. Pet owners should also ensure animals have access to fresh water and shade and avoid walking dogs on hot pavement during the afternoon, when sidewalks and streets can become hot enough to burn paws.
The National Weather Service recommends limiting outdoor activities during peak afternoon heat and monitoring local forecasts for updated advisories as temperatures remain elevated across North Texas.
