Stay Informed with the City of San Antonio’s Beat The Heat Campaign
August 18, 2023
The "Beat the Heat" campaign in San Antonio aims to raise awareness about the risks of heat-related illnesses during the summer months.
The City of San Antonio has taken this initiative to educate the community on the preventive measures and precautions that can be taken to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Knowing how to stay safe is crucial with high temperatures and humidity common to the area.
The campaign provides information on heat injury prevention and offers resources to help the community stay cool. There are over 30 locations in San Antonio where residents can find air-conditioned spaces to stay indoors during extreme temperatures. These places include city libraries, senior centers, and community centers. The campaign also highlights additional facilities like splash pads and swimming pools that are available for free to help people stay cool.
Certain groups, such as adults over 65, children under 4, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, are at a higher risk of heat-related health issues on hot days. To mitigate risks, the campaign recommends staying hydrated, protecting oneself from the sun, and checking on neighbors who might be vulnerable to heat. Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are potential health effects, and the warning signs of heat stroke are detailed, urging immediate action and medical attention.
The campaign also emphasizes never leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles, especially during high temperatures. If anyone encounters a child or pet left in a hot vehicle, they are advised to take action immediately by noting down the vehicle's description and contacting the appropriate authorities. Both the Police Department and Animal Care Services have the authority to break a car's window to rescue a child or animal in danger due to heat inside the vehicle, as per city ordinance.
For more information and resources, visit the San Antonio Office of Emergency Management website here.