Much of Texas is currently under a heat advisory. A Texas heat advisory is a weather alert issued by meteorological authorities, such as the National Weather Service, to inform the public about anticipated hot and humid conditions that have the potential to pose a health risk. You should pay attention when spending time outdoors during heat advisories.
When a Texas heat advisory is in effect, it serves as a warning for individuals to take precautions and protect themselves from the potentially harmful effects of excessive heat. It is essential for vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children, and individuals with certain medical conditions, to be aware of the advisory and take appropriate measures to stay cool and hydrated.
During a Texas heat advisory, people should:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
- Limit outdoor activities, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
- Seek shade or air-conditioned environments whenever possible.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing.
- Use sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect against sunburn.
- Check on family members, friends, and neighbors, particularly those more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
- Be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and seek medical attention if necessary.
Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Heavy sweating
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pale, clammy skin
- Muscle cramps
- Rapid heartbeat
- Fainting
If you or someone you are with shows signs of heat exhaustion, getting out of the heat and into a cooler environment is advised. Rehydrate with either water or a sports drink. Cool down with ice packs or a cool shower and rest. Check out more tips and tricks from Pogo, to help you survive the Texas summers without going broke. Heat exhaustion can quickly turn into a more severe condition known as heat stroke during a heat advisory. Heat Stroke requires immediate medical attention.
Signs of heat stroke:
- Still unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place, being cooled and drinking fluids
- Temperature of 103 or higher
- Hot skin that’s not sweating and might look red
- Fast heartbeat
- Fast breathing or shortness of breath
- Confusion and lack of coordination
- A seizure or fit
- Loss of consciousness
Unfortunately, developing heat stroke during a heat advisory in Texas does not take long.
Factors that increase your risk of heat stroke include:
- Drinking alcohol
- Being male
- Being dehydrated
- Drugs that affect your body’s ability to regulate temperature, such as diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, or heart and blood pressure medications
- Certain diseases that affect your ability to sweat, such as cystic fibrosis
- Having certain medical conditions, such as a sleep disorder or problems with your heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, thyroid or blood vessels
- Wearing heavy or tight clothing, such as protective gear
- Having a high fever and or being ill
- Having obesity
- A past history of heatstroke
- Not taking breaks during sun exposure while working in extreme heat conditions
The heat during a Texas summer is always a force to be reconned with. When a heat advisory is called it is imperative that Texans stay diligent in their efforts to stay cool and beware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Although we can’t necessarily hide from the heat, we can do things that make us more comfortable. Did you know that there are certain foods to eat during hot weather that are better at keeping you hydrated? Taking breaks from working in the sun and hydrating are a must to stay safe and healthy through the season. Making sure your AC system is working efficiently and can last the season should also be on your priority list, as well as using an electric company that can save you money and has your back if you ever find yourself in a tight spot.
When needing to manage your energy usage closely to keep your electric spend under control, consider a month-to-month electric plan with Pogo Energy. Pogo’s month to month energy plan keeps Texans in the know of your usage, does not require a deposit or a long term commitment. Stay cool all summer long with Pogo Energy.