DALLAS (Monday, July 18, 2022) — Triple-digit temperatures are forecast throughout the week for North Texas, with temperatures on Wednesday climbing to near-record levels, according to the National Weather Service. To help keep everyone safe during this latest heatwave, the American Red Cross is urging people to use caution and follow our heat safety tips.

Extreme heat is the most dangerous type of severe-weather event in the country. Annually, thousands of people suffer from heat related injuries including heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat strokes. Individuals should stay hydrated, adhere to weather and heat advisories, seek out cooling centers if necessary and make a plan to address heat-related emergencies.

“Given the ongoing extreme heat experienced in Texas, heat stress can occur quickly. While outdoors, people should drink plenty of water and take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas,” said Ariane Einecker, interim CEO, American Red Cross North Texas Region. “Heat waves may also cause power outages. If affected, residents should have a plan to go somewhere else with an air conditioner to avoid the elements until power is restored.”

The Red Cross is working with partners in North Texas to support cooling centers. Red Cross volunteers are already staffing some centers—providing water, ice and snacks—and are standing by to assist as more open. The Red Cross is currently supporting operations at cooling centers in the following locations: 

600 Wilson Creek Parkway, McKinney, TX 75069 (Monday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.) 

HEAT SAFETY TIPS

• Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol. 
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• If you don’t have air conditioning, seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like schools, libraries, theaters, malls, etc.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
•  Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat. Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
• Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade.  

SYMPTOMS OF HEAT RELATED EMERGENCIES

Heat-related symptoms can include:

• Cool, moist, pale or flushed skin
• Heavy sweating 
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
•  Dizziness or loss of consciousness
• Weakness 

WHAT TO DO

If you see someone suffering from heat stress, follow these steps:

1. If losing consciousness or vomiting, immediately call 9-1-1
2. Relocate to an air conditioned or shaded area 
3. Slowly drink cool water
4. Apply ice or cold towels to head, neck, groin, wrists, ankles and underarms  

DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS

The Red Cross app “Emergency” can help keep you and your loved ones safe by putting vital information in your hand. Download from any app store or at redcross.org/apps for more than 35 different severe weather and emergency alerts. You can also learn First Aid and CPR/AED skills (redcross.org/takeaclass) to help keep your loved ones safe in an emergency.  

About the American Red Cross: 
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/northtexas or cruzrojaamericana.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossNTX