Your guide to staying safe in extreme heat

TYLER, Texas (KETK) — As summer temperatures consistently rock East Texas, it’s important to stay safe and keep yourself protected in extreme heat. Here is your guide to staying safe and cool in these hot temperatures.

Extreme heat is defined as a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days, according to Ready, a U.S. government campaign designed to educate the American people.

Children, those older than 65 and people who are sick or overweight are at a greater risk of heat-related illness. Humidity helps to increase the feeling of heat, experts say.

It is recommended by Ready and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that people prepare for extreme heat and know how to be safe during it. Here are a few tips for doing both:

Tips for staying cool

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, but stay away from very sugary drinks
Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing
Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors during midday heat if possible
Wear sunscreen, sunburn affects the body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated
Watch for heat-related illnesses
Consider pet safety. For pets outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to shade
Take cool showers or baths
Do not leave children or pets in cars
Stay up to date on heat advisories from local weather sources
Pace yourself. If you’re not accustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually.

Prepare

Cover windows with drapes of shades
Use weather strips on doors and windows
Use window reflectors to reflect heat back outside
Add insulation in your home to keep the heat out
Identify cool places to go in the community such as libraries and shopping malls or contact the local health department to find a cooling center near you
Do not rely on fans as a primary cooling device

Signs of heat-related illness

Heat-related illnesses are preventable. The CDC says if exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for air, stop all activity. Get into a cool area or into the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint. The CDC provided the following signs and what to do if you or someone around you suffers from a heat-related illness.