City of San Antonio officials are reminding all residents to prepare to stay cool during extreme heat. According to the National Weather Service, high temperatures in the San Antonio area will range from 99-104 degrees June 14-19.
A news release outlines heat safety, especially for adults over age 65, children under age 4, people with existing medical conditions and pets.
- Drink plenty of water and be protected from the sun. Avoid alcohol or liquids containing large amounts of sugar or caffeine.
- Call or check on neighbors who may be at high risk and ensure they have access to heat relief and hydration.
- Remind outside workers to take precautions, including drinking plenty of water, taking rest breaks, finding shade or a cool location, dressing for the heat, and checking on their coworkers.
- Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat strokes are possible health effects.
- Never leave children or pets alone in vehicles. If a child or pet is seen locked in a hot car or in the back of a pickup, people are urged to write down the vehicle’s description, including a license plate number, and call 911, or for a pet, call Animal Care Services at 311 or 210-207-6000.
- Take cool showers or use a spray bottle to mist with cool water and wear light-color and loose-fitting clothing.
- Provide pets with fresh water and shelter. Chain tethers of any type are not allowed at any time of year. If an animal does show signs of heat stress, the owner is urged to lower their pet’s body temperature and get them to a vet immediately.
The release states the city welcomes residents without immediate access to air conditioning to stay cool at city libraries, senior centers, community centers and other public places.
The city also offers free access to public splash pads and swimming pools. San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department said June 15 it was opening 23 outdoor pools June 17 for free, public use, adding that it is expanding pool hours by one hour each day and offering earlier swim times at select pool locations.
Additionally, San Antonio residents age 60 and older with a need for a box fan are eligible to receive a fan free of charge by calling the United Way Helpline at 211. Fans can be donated to any San Antonio Fire Station or the St. Stephen’s Care Center at 2127 Zarzamora St. For more, visit the city's heat safety page or call 311 or 210-207-6000.
