Austin Public Health reports more than 700 heat-related ER visits since May. City officials are connecting residents with information to prevent heat illness.
AUSTIN, Texas — Another stretch of triple-digit temperatures is putting heat safety back in focus across Central Texas, with hundreds of people visiting emergency rooms for heat-related illnesses this summer.
According to Austin Public Health data updated Wednesday, there have been 784 heat-related emergency department visits in the Austin metro area since May. Of those, 519 were for heat exhaustion, while 41 were for heat stroke.
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Austin resident Griselda Rodriguez said the heat is changing even her simple plans.
“I invited my elderly parents to come and take advantage of this little get-together here for the community,” Rodriguez said. “Even stepping in and out of the car for them would be a little too much.”
Rodriguez attended the Austin Emergency Management Emergency Preparedness Pop-Up at the Ruiz Branch Library on Wednesday, where the organization put heat safety front and center.
Christine Casebeer, a community engagement specialist, said simple precautions can help reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
“Stay hydrated,” Casebeer said. “Look before you lock your vehicle to make sure you don’t have your pets or your kids in the car. Wear loose clothing.”
The city provided water bottles and fans at the event while providing residents with information about cooling centers and other emergency resources.
Casebeer also encouraged residents to plan around the forecast, particularly during periods of extreme heat.
“Stay informed with the weather,” Casebeer said. “Check to see what the temperatures are going to be like and then prepare for that.”
Rodriguez said the information is useful, not only for protecting herself, but also for helping family members and neighbors who may be especially vulnerable to the heat.
“It’s good to have this information not only for myself, but to be of assistance and a resource to others as well,” Rodriguez said.
The city’s next preparedness fair is scheduled for Sept. 18, offering residents another opportunity to learn how to prepare for emergencies and help others in their communities do the same.