LUFKIN, Texas (NOTICIAS DEL ESTE DE TEXAS) – As temperatures rise, the risk of heat-related illnesses also climbs.
It’s the kind of weather many look forward to: hot, sunny days. It was also the perfect day for Dawn Glovers’ grandchildren to splash around at a water park to celebrate her granddaughter’s 11th birthday.
“We’re here with fans and coolers full of water, and they’re behind me at the water park here in Lufkin,” Glover said.
Lately, with the thermometer hovering around 90 degrees, she said they’re taking extra precautions to avoid the risk of heat-related illness.
“A heat stroke can cause serious damage to the body,” Glover said.
Higher temperatures raise the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These problems typically occur when the body overheats and can’t cool down quickly enough. Jonathon Walker, of Nacogdoches Emergency Medical Services, explained that it starts with heat cramps, then heat exhaustion, and if the situation worsens, a heat stroke can occur.
“The body is cooking, even the brain. It’s probably safer to pull the brain out and put it in the oven. That’s basically what’s happening,” Walker said.
Walker added that they have already responded to a call related to heat exhaustion this year.
In 2024, they responded to 29 calls. The city of Lufkin had 17, and UT Health in Tyler said they had responded to 248 calls related to heat and cold. Allison Pollan, UT Health East Texas’s director of communications, explained that the figures are combined due to protocols, but heat-related incidents account for the majority of their calls.
Getting sick doesn’t take much effort under the right circumstances. Connor Green, a plumber with Strickland Plumbing and HVAC, said he witnessed a coworker suffer heat exhaustion.
“It was as simple as cutting plywood. He was sweating heavily and the sun was beating down. He just passed out,” Green said.
Heavy sweating is only one indicator that something is wrong. Here are more signs:
- High body temperature
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Rapid or shallow breathing
- Tachycardia
Walker noted that some people who suffer a heat stroke do not sweat at all.
“It’s the worst possible scenario; the body has basically given up. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find someone who has had a heat stroke and is completely dry. You look at their skin and they’re not sweating, not sweating at all because the body can’t take it anymore. The body has already given up,” Walker explained.
Heat-related illnesses can occur when exposed to heat for too long, not drinking enough fluids, or engaging in physical activity.
Green and his girlfriend play pickleball, but they take precautions.
“Drink plenty of water and seek a cool place, even if it’s not in the shade, and if you have a car, use the air conditioning,” Green said.
Walker explained that heat-related illnesses can be prevented by drinking enough water and electrolytes. He also recommends taking short breaks in the shade or in a cool place away from the sun. He encourages people to be accompanied by someone who can recognize the signs and help if trouble arises.
Walker explained that heat exhaustion does not necessarily require medical attention.
“If you can drink fluids, encourage them to do so; if not, and if something isn’t right, call 911. If it’s a heat stroke, plain and simple, call 911,” Walker said.
Children and older adults are the groups most at risk for heat-related illnesses.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, outdoor activities should be limited from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., typically the hottest part of the day.
