As we head into the heart of the summer months, it’s important for people to remember the dangers of exposure to excessive heat.

Dallas County Health Department Health Navigator Ann Cochran says when temperatures get above 90-degrees with heat indexes over 100, it can be dangerous for people to be outside for extended periods. Cochran notes that children under two-years-old and adults over 70 are particularly susceptible to extreme heat, and precautions should be taken to ensure their health and safety. She points out, the most effective way for people to protect themselves and others from the heat is to drink lots of water.

Dehydration can be a danger for people of any age, and Cochran encourages monitoring fluid intake for most outdoor activities. “Hydration is always one of the key things. What can happen is dizziness or they become nauseated, and you can become very sick because of dehydration. Just be sensible. If it’s a terribly hot day, don’t choose to mow your lawn at 2 o’clock in the afternoon. Either do it early in the day or just wait until it’s a little cooler in the late part of the afternoon.”

To learn more about this and other safety tips from the Dallas County Health Department, click the link below to listen to the recent Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program with Cochran.

https://www.raccoonvalleyradio.com/2020/06/10/lets-talk-dallas-county-6-10-2020-ann-cochran/