City of San Antonio Issues Heat Advisory - Level II

San Antonio Metropolitan Health District is notifying the community of a Heat Advisory. When the daytime heat index values are 105 degrees or greater, and the minimum ambient air temperature is not expected to fall below 80 degrees Fahrenheit for two consecutive days, the City of San Antonio advises the community of a Heat Advisory - Level II.

During the summer months, excessive heat temperatures are a fact of life in South Texas. Excessive heat conditions can result in direct and adverse health consequences, particularly to the very young and to the elderly.

Residents are warned that the danger of heat-related injuries and the potential for fatalities increase under a Level II alert. If they do not live in a home with air conditioning or can not visit one during the severest heat of the day (typically between 2 p.m. - 7 p.m.), they are encouraged to visit an air-conditioned facility such as a shopping mall or library, or call one of the community resources below to seek air-conditioned relief.

One option to cool off is at a public library. Locations and hours of operation can be found at http://www.mysapl.org/locations.aspx. 

In addition, the Heat Plan can be viewed at http://www.sanantonio.gov/health/PHEP-Main.html.

The following health precautions continue to be recommended under a Level II alert to avoid dehydration, heat-related illnesses or more severe consequences, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children.

-Drink non-alcoholic and caffeine-free liquids, such as water and juices.
-Be aware of those at high risk, such as the elderly, infants and children up to 4 years of age or individuals who are overweight. Check on elderly
 parents, relatives, acquaintances and neighbors as often as possible.
-Do not leave infants, children, the elderly or pets unattended in a parked car (even if the windows are down or the air conditioning is on) or any
 other hot environment.
-Plan to exercise and do other strenuous activities early or late in the day when it is cooler or utilize air-conditioned facilities.
-Use an umbrella, hat or sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, and wear loose-fitting and light clothing to help heat escape away from your
  body. Rest frequently in a shady area.
-Ask your physician whether you are at particular risk because of medication.
-Remember to leave fresh water in the bowl for pets kept outdoors and provide as much shade as possible. Change the water frequently to prevent
  mosquitoes from breeding.
-If you feel any symptoms of heat illness such as dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps or headache, immediately stop all activity and move to a cooler
 area to rest and drink fluids. Medical attention should be sought if symptoms do not improve.

The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District encourages the community to contact the National Weather Service for the most current weather conditions at 830-606-3617 or visit www.weather.gov/sanantonio for current hourly weather. During the hot summer days, the Heat Outlook (Level I) will not be deactivated.

For Further Assistance:
If you have an emergency, call: 911
For utility assistance, call CPS: 210-353-2222
For fan assistance, call the United Way Help Line: 211
For non-emergency information, call: 311 (Hours 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.)