With forecasters predicting the heat index will surpass 105 degrees this weekend, the City of Houston activated its public health heat emergency plan, which offers some city buildings as cooling centers for anyone without access to air conditioning. Residents can call 311 for information.
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The Houston Health Department is also encouraging residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illness and death. The department says high-risk groups such as adults age 55 and older, children under age 4, people with chronic illness, overweight individuals, and people on certain medications should stay inside air-conditioned buildings between 1 and 5 p.m., the hottest part of the day.
Also recommended:
- Increase water consumption before getting thirsty, but avoid beverages with caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar. Outdoor workers should consider electrolyte-replacement beverages.
- Outdoor work or exercise should be confined to early morning or evening. During the day, take frequent breaks in the shade or in air-conditioning.
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that allows perspiration to evaporate.
- Do not leave people or pets unattended in a parked vehicle, even if the windows are open. Check to make sure everyone is out, especially children who may have fallen asleep.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply sunscreen to help prevent sunburn.
- Take frequent cool baths or showers if air-conditioning is not available at home.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include weakness, dizziness, excessive sweating, cool or moist skin, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, and a fast and weak pulse. Anyone experiencing such symptoms should move to a cool place, drink water, take a cool shower or bath, and rest.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms include a throbbing headache, red skin with no sweat, body temperature above 103°, nausea, vomiting, confusion, loss of consciousness, and a rapid pulse. Call 911 immediately and try to lower the person’s body temperature until help arrives.
In Katy, meanwhile, the city has implemented Stage 1 of its Drought Contingency Plan which asks residents to only water lawns or landscapes between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m
It also asks for overall reduced water usage in homes and businesses.
It's possible other area cities and counties may also consider voluntary measures.
Federal drought-related assistance is already being offered to farmers, including some in Fort Bend County.