HEAT SAFETY TIPS FOR ENJOYING ARLINGTON PARKS THE REMAINDER OF THE SUMMER
Picnics , pool days , and making memories in the sunshine are just a few of the things we love most about summer . However , summer months in North Texas often bring along extremely high temperatures that can be dangerous if not properly addressed . Arlington Parks and Recreation offers these heat safety tips so you can prepare for your time outdoors and enjoy a fun summer without falling victim to heat-related illness .
HYDRATION Drink , drink , drink ! Consuming enough fluid is crucial to staying healthy on hot days in order to replenish fluids lost through sweat . A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 16-20 ounces of water for every hour you are in the heat , and increase this amount as your activity becomes more strenuous . Avoid alcoholic or very sugary drinks , as these can lead to dehydration . If your pet is joining you on your outing , make sure to bring enough water for them as well .
APPAREL Choose clothing that is lightweight , breathable , and fits loosely . Avoid wearing dark colors as they absorb and trap more heat ; opt for light colored clothing if you plan to be in direct sunlight . A brimmed hat can offer protection from the sun ’ s rays reaching your scalp or face . Wear comfortable , breathable shoes for walking and bring along a wet bandana to keep your neck cool .
TIME OF DAY Try to schedule your outdoor activities during the morning or evening hours , as these are the coolest parts of the day . The sun ’ s rays and heat are strongest between the hours of 10 a . m . and 4 p . m ., so you ’ ll want to avoid lengthy outdoor trips during these hours . If you do venture outside during the heat of the day , keep strenuous activity to a minimum .
REPLENISH As you sweat , your body loses salt and electrolytes , which can cause fatigue if left unchecked . You can replenish these electrolytes by bringing along salty snacks that are portable and nutritious , like granola , trail mix , dried fruit , and nuts . Jerky and tuna are good options if you need a protein boost on your outing . Avoid eating large , hot meals before or during your time outside as they can add heat to your body .
PRECAUTIONS FOR PETS Your best furry friend probably loves being outside just as much as you do , so it ’ s important to consider your pet ’ s needs if you plan to bring them outdoors this summer . Keep in mind that their fur coats add insulation , and their paws are sensitive to ground temperature . Check the ground temperature by placing the back of
your hand on the pavement or ground surface ; if it ’ s uncomfortable or painful to hold your hand there for longer than 5 seconds , it ’ s too hot for your dog ’ s paws ! Make sure you bring plenty of water along for your pet . Consider investing in some dog booties to protect your pup ’ s paws from being burned by hot pavement or rocks .
KNOW THE SIGNS OF HEAT ILLNESS Before you venture out this summer , take time to familiarize yourself with the signs of heat illness and what to do if you observe these in yourself or others .
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating , clammy skin , muscle cramps , weakness , nausea or vomiting , faintness , dizziness , headache . Move to a cool or shady place , loosen or remove clothes , sip water , place wet cloths on your body or take a cool bath . Symptoms of heat stroke include body temperature above 102 °, hot or red skin , throbbing headache , fast and strong pulse , dizziness , nausea , confusion , and loss of consciousness . Call 911 immediately , move the person to a cooler place , lower body temperature with cool cloths or ice packs . As always , we want your time outdoors to be safe , fun , and memorable for the right reasons . We hope these safety tips help you have fun in the sun without overexposing yourself to the Texas heat this summer .