Dallas County Health and Human Services is reporting their first heat-related death in the county this year.
The victim was a 66-year-old woman who had underlying health conditions. For privacy reasons, DCHHS is not disclosing the woman's identity.
"We are very saddened to report our first heat-related death this season," said Dr. Philip Huang, Director of DCHHS. "We are experiencing extreme heat this season, and this again reminds us how important it is to take every possible precaution. Hydrate constantly and limit your time outdoors to protect against the intense heat."
DCHHS says heat-related illness occurs when the body is unable to properly cool itself. They also say to monitor symptoms and follow the CDC tips for heat-related illness prevention below:
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- Stay indoors as much as possible
- Limit outdoor activities, exercise during cooler parts of the day and stay in shady areas
- Drink plenty of water
- Follow local news for extreme heat alerts and other safety tips
To learn more and for more tips, visit the CDC's website.
PROGRAM PROVIDES FREE AIR CONDITIONING UNITS
Health Connection
Get connected to a healthier life.
The Dallas County Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program provides free air conditioning and heating units to low-income families who qualify.
It's a year-round program for heating and cooling, and also covers electric bills.
Go online for details or call 214-819-1848 for assistance.
HEAT SAFETY TIPS
With heat like this, you'll want to take precautions and be prepared.
Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors to ensure they stay cool.
Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles. According to the National Safety Council, if it's 95 degrees outside a car's internal temperature could climb to 129 degrees in 30 minutes. After just 10 minutes, temperatures inside could reach 114 degrees.
A child's body temperature heats up three to five times faster than an adult's, and heatstroke can begin when a person's core body temperature reaches 104 degrees. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, a core temperature of 107 degrees is lethal.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments to reduce risk during outdoor work. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heatstroke is an emergency! Call 911. The CDC has more information on heat-related illnesses.
Take care of your pets by providing fresh, cool water and shade. Also, pets should not be left outside and unattended for too long. It's too hot and they need to be brought inside.
