Posted: August 11, 2005
“People always
tell me it’s not as hot here as it is up north because we don’t have
“humidity”. It’s dry heat,” said Lisa Palmer. “But I don’t care if you’re in
Plano or Chicago or Miami or anywhere else. Once it hits 100 it’s just plain
hot!”
Whether you’re a native Texan or a lucky transplant to
this great state, Texas summers can often be challenging.
Late last month a Collin County man collapsed and died
as a result of the extreme heat, prompting the County to issue a health
advisory. Persons with friends and family in high-risk categories should
monitor them carefully, including those age 65 and older, those physically
ill from heart disease or high blood pressure, infants, persons who are
overweight and those who live in non-air conditioned residences.
According to the Center for Disease Control and
Prevention, more persons die from extreme heat in the United States than
from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, flood and earthquakes combined.
“People can die from excessive heat exposure if they
do not take the necessary precautions,” says Collin County Medical Examiner
Dr. William Rohr. “There are a number of risk factors and people need to be
aware of who is at greatest risk.”
The very young, patients with chronic diseases, the
elderly and persons not accustomed to the heat are at risk. Persons on
medication may even find some prescription drugs can affect the body’s
ability to cool itself.
Plano’s Environmental Health Department offers the
following advice for beating the heat:
Drink Plenty of Fluids.
Increase your fluid intake, avoiding very cold beverages, which may cause
stomach cramps.. Avoid drinks containing alcohol because they may cause you
to lose more fluid. During heavy exercise drink 2-4 glasses (16-32 oz.) of
cool fluids each hour.
Replace Salt & Minerals.
Drink fruit juice or a sports beverage during exercise or any work in the
heat. Do not take salt tablets unless directed by your doctor.
Wear Appropriate Clothing & Sunscreen.
Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. A wide brimmed
hat will provide shade and keep your head cool. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes
before going outdoors and reapply according to package directions. Select
SPF 15 or higher to protect yourself adequately.
Pace Yourself and Schedule Outdoor Activities
Carefully. If you are unaccustomed to working
or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace
gradually. Plan your activities so you are outdoors either before noon or in
the evening. While outdoors, rest frequently in a shady area.
Use Common Sense. Avoid
hot foods and heavy meals. They add heat to your body. Limit sun exposure
mid-day hours and observe ozone alert warnings, which can make breathing
difficult on hot stagnant days.
Remember Your Pets!
Outdoor pets need plenty of shade and water. Check them frequently.