Local · Trusted · Free
The Morning Impact — your neighborhood's most important stories, delivered every morning.
During the week of May 12, some cities in Central Texas—including Austin—saw triple-digit temperatures, according to the National Weather Service.
At a May 13 news conference, Austin officials noted mid-May is the earliest the city has seen triple-digit temperatures in about 40 years.
While temperatures rise, the city of Georgetown and the Texas Department of Public Safety offered residents tips to keep people and pets safe throughout the summer.
What the experts say
According to a DPS news release, children’s bodies heat up three to five times faster than the average adult. On a 90-degree day, temperatures inside motor vehicles can rise about 130 degrees in under 30 minutes, per the DPS.
Leaving small children or dogs in a parked vehicle on hot days can be costly, even after opening windows or parking in shaded areas.
According to local government code, knowingly leaving a child in a motor vehicle for over five minutes is a Class C misdemeanor if the child is:
Before drivers head out for summer vacation, DPS officials recommend ensuring motor vehicles are in good condition. Drivers should also stock up with emergency supplies like a cell phone battery charger, flashlight, jumper cables, first aid kit, water and non-perishable food.
Did you know?
The Texas Division of Emergency Management offers a map of cooling centers open and operated by local officials, which can be viewed here. According to the TDEM, Georgetown has three cooling centers located near downtown.
Keep in mind
As asphalt temperatures can reach up to 140 degrees on an 85-degree day, people and pets could get burned within just one minute of contact, according to the DPS.
Taking short walks in the morning and in the shade can help keep pets comfortable, according to city officials. If the temperature of the ground is too extreme for pet owners to stay in contact with for over five seconds, it’s also too hot for dogs, per the release.
Owners should pack water appropriately for long hikes or day trips with pets. Signs of dehydration include pale gums and lethargy, according to the city. To encourage canines to drink more fluids, city officials recommend adding low sodium broth to a dog’s drinking supply.
Before you go
DPS officials shared additional safety tips for the summer, such as:
