Dangerously Hot! ArkLaTex Prepares for Scorching Holiday Temps

As the Arklatex gets ready to fire up the grills, sparklers, and bottle-rockets, there’s another element you need to take into consideration as you make your long holiday weekend plans. And although we’re not unfamiliar with triple-digit temps, it’s still going to be plenty hot. Then, when you add in the humidity, you’ve got a recipe for possible dangerous conditions.

Just How Hot Will it Be?

Temperatures in Northwest Louisiana and East Texas are expected to reach the upper 90’s.  Friday is only going to reach brisk 94, but Saturday and Sunday temps are expected to reach around 97-98 degrees.  And being summer in Louisiana the humidity will shoot the heat indices to well over 100 degrees.

This weekend is all about celebrating and having fun. And sitting in an emergency room hooked up to an IV of fluids kind of takes the fun out of the weekend.  So here are some safety tips to help keep you safe while you have fun.

According to the American Red Cross, there are several things you can do to keep yourself and your family safe from the extreme heat this weekend.

How to Stay Safe in the Extreme Heat

Stay Hydrated-    You need to drink enough water to prevent heat illness. An average person needs to drink about 3/4 of a gallon of water daily. Everyone’s needs may vary.  You can check that you are getting enough water by noting your urine color. Dark yellow may indicate you are not drinking enough. 

Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.  If you are sweating a lot, combine water with snacks or a sports drink to replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.

Stay Cool- Stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible.  If your home does not have air conditioning, go to your predesignated cool location.

Wear lightweight, loose clothing and take cool showers or baths. Limit your outdoor activity. If you must work outdoors, schedule tasks earlier or later in the day.

Be Aware of the Signs of Heat Illness

There are several signs of Heat-Related Illnesses to be aware of:

• Heavy sweating
• Cold, pale and clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness-Headache-Passing out

If you notice any of these signs this weekend, seek medical help right away.

Don’t Forget About Your Pets

Also, don’t forget about your furry family members.  If you have pets that spend time outdoors, please make sure they have access to air-conditioning or at least shade, and plenty of clean water available.  Pets are susceptible to extreme heat just like humans and can overheat and suffer from heat stroke just like us.

Enjoy your long holiday weekend, but make sure you do it safely.