Extreme Heat, Drought & Wildfire

Hot Texas summers, there’s nothing quite like it! Careful - extreme heat not only kills lawns, but it can also push your body beyond its limits.  Older adults, young children, and those who are sick or overweight are most likely to suffer when the mercury rises.  Droughts and wildfires can also be the result of super-hot temperatures, low amounts of rainfall and careless behavior.  Learn how to take protective measures to safeguard yourself and your environment.

HOT STUFF: GET THE FACTS

  • In a normal year, approximately 175 Americans die from extreme heat.  Young children, elderly people, and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to become victims.
  • Between 1936 and 1975, nearly 20,000 people succumbed to the effects of heat and solar radiation.
  • Because men sweat more than women, men are more susceptible to heat illness because they become dehydrated more quickly.

DROUGHT INFORMATION

Get up-to-date drought information for North Central Texas.

HEAT DANGERS

Heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits.  In extreme heat and high humidity, evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.  Most heat disorders occur because the victim has been overexposed to heat or has over-exercised for his or her age and physical condition.  Older adults, young children, and those who are sick or overweight are more likely to succumb to extreme heat.  Conditions that can induce heat-related illnesses include stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality. 

Urban Areas

Consequently, people living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave than those living in rural areas.  Also, asphalt and concrete store heat longer and gradually release heat at night, which can produce higher nighttime temperatures known as the “urban heat island effect.”

TAKE PROTECTIVE MEASURES BEFORE EXTREME HEAT

To prepare for extreme heat, you should:

  • Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.
  • Check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation.
  • Install temporary window reflectors (for use between windows and drapes), such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to reflect heat back outside.
  • Weather-strip doors and windows to keep cool air in.
  • Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers.  (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80%.)
  • Keep storm windows up all year.

DURING A HEAT EMERGENCY

The following are guidelines for what you should do if the weather is extremely hot:

  • Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.
  • Stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
  • Consider spending the warmest part of the day in public buildings such as:

    • Libraries
    • Movie theaters
    • Other community facilities
    • Schools
    • Shopping malls

Circulating air can cool the body by increasing the perspiration rate of evaporation.

  • Eat well-balanced, light, and regular meals.  Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  • Drink plenty of water.  Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease; are on fluid-restricted diets; or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
  • Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.
  • Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
  • Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
  • Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day.  Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.