Staying Safe Out In The Texas Heat

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer! This means that a lot of people will be getting out exploring the state parks and getting on the water as the temperatures start to warm up here in Texas. Here are some helpful tips and tricks to help you stay safe while out of the water or in the Texas heat.

While on water:

· Always swim with a buddy; never swim alone.

· Read and obey all rules and posted signs.

· Swim in areas that are supervised by a lifeguard.

· Children or inexperienced swimmers should take extra precautions, such as wearing a life jacket when around the water.

· Watch out for dangerous “too’s”- too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity

· Set water safety rules for your family based on swimming abilities (for example, inexperienced swimmers should stay in water less than chest deep).

· Be knowledgeable of the water environment that you are in and its potential hazards, such as deep and shallow areas, currents, depth changes, obstructions, and where the entry and exit points are located.

· Know how to prevent, recognize, and respond to emergencies.

· Use a feet-first entry when entering the water.

· Enter headfirst only when the area is clearly marked for diving and has no obstructions.

· Texas law states that all passengers under the age of 13 must wear a USCG approved life jacket when any vessel less than 26 feet in length is underway. If the vessel is anchored or aground, then a life jacket is not required.

· All vessels under 16 feet, including canoes and kayaks, must carry with them at least one lifejacket for each occupant.

Out on the trail:

· Pack your cooler with water, ice, and cool packs or cloths. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages which are diuretics and can dehydrate you.

· Dress for the heat in loose, light-colored clothing, wear a hat, and use sunscreen.

· Don’t over-exercise, take breaks, and seek shade or air conditioning to cool yourself down.

· Keep an eye on children, pets, and the elderly for signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

· Familiarize yourself with the trail and plan your route.

· If going solo, let at least one friend or family member know your route, expected return time, and description of your clothing.

· Make sure your cell phone is fully charged

· Carry identification and include name, phone number, and medical information (allergies, medications, medical history) Consider listing an emergency contact number.

· Keep the volume down on your headphones or use just one earphone in order to hear and be alerted to approaching hazards.

· Wear sunscreen of at least SPF15

· Wear appropriate footwear

· Stay on marked trails

· Stay to the right of the trail to avoid blocking the trail and allow room for a safe right-of-way around you for others.

· If you need to stop, move to the side of the trail

Don’t forget about our Furry Friends:

· Pets can get dehydrated quickly, so make sure you take precautions to keep your pet safe.

· Give your pet plenty of water when it’s hot outdoors. Make sure to fill their water bowl before you leave.

· Make sure they have a shady place to get out of the sun.

· Be careful not to over-exercise your pet. Too much playtime in the hot sun is dangerous for them.

· Hot asphalt and tar can burn sensitive paw pads, walk your pet on grass or dirt when possible.

· Keep your pet indoors when it’s extremely hot outside.

· Never leave your pet in a car! Pets can overheat in minutes so don’t put them at risk! Leave them home in hot weather.