University of North Texas

(Editor's Note, again: InHouse didn't expect to publish this reminder again, since we always have some hot days in a Texas summer. But North Texas is now, Aug. 2, into its second month of 100-plus degree temperatures. Temperatures above normal human temps - 98.6F - put stress on the entire body, no matter how young or healthy. Take care.)

(Editor's note: Hot weather continues today, July 19, after 17 consecutive days of 100-plus temperatures Temperatures are expected to be in the high 90s, probably over 100, through the rest of the week. Phew.)

The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory July 12, noting that "dangerously hot weather" will continue throughout the week in North Texas.

• Find the forecast from the National Weather Service.

Everyone - humans of all ages and pets - is at risk when temperatures rise above 90 degrees. People suffer from heat-related illness when their bodies are unable to properly regulate temperature. Heat stroke or exhaustion can cause serious injury and even death when unattended.

• Learn more: Centers for Disease Control.

Signs of heat-related illnesses include nausea, dizziness, flushed or pale skin, heavy sweating and headaches. Victims of heat-related illness should be moved to a cool place, given cool water to drink and ice packs or cool wet cloths should be applied to the skin. If the individual loses consciousness, call 911 immediately.

Here are tips to stay cool:

• Don’t drink liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar. These actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.
• Stay cool indoors or in an air conditioned place. 
• Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen. Choose lightweight, light-colored loose-fitting clothing. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat, sunglasses and by using sunscreen of SPF15 or higher.
• Try to limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
• Never leave pets, children or infants in a closed parked vehicle. On a warm day of 85 degrees, temperatures can soar to 102 degrees inside a vehicle within 10 minutes, even if parked in the shade or with partially opened windows.