Hot Weather Health Warning Issued

SAN ANTONIO -- The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District issued a Level II hot weather health warning Thursday for San Antonio and Bexar County.

The warning was issued after the National Weather Service issued a heat advisory and daytime heat index values of 105 degrees or higher and an actual nighttime temperature of 80 degrees or higher were forecast for a second consecutive day.

The warning prompted Metro Health to initiate its Heat Plan.

Metro Health officials expected the sweltering heat to create conditions that may cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

The Los Angeles Heights Keystone Neighborhood has made a plea for fan donations. Anybody wishing to donate fans can drop them off from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday, at Jacala Restaurant at 606 West Avenue.

"There is a dire need, we're pleading to anyone in the city, any business that could donate any fans at all to please drop them off here," said Patricia Doria of the LA Heights Keystone subdivision.

Residents who don't have access to air conditioning were encouraged to seek relief by calling call one of the following community resources:

City of San Antonio: Community Initiatives, Community Action Division: 207-7830

Salvation Army: 352-2020

Catholic Charities: 433-3256

Society of St. Vincent de Paul: 225-7837

Seniors and disabled people seeking information and referrals about transportation, shelters and other information can call Alamo Service Connection at 477-3275.

The following 24-hour help lines are also available:

United Way HELP Line: 211

Non-Emergency Information: 311

Methodist Healthcare System call a nurse for children: 226-8773 (22NURSE)

(Available 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. Monday through Friday and 24-hours on weekends.)

The following health precautions are recommended under a Level II alert to avoid dehydration, heat-related illnesses or more severe consequences:

Drink non-alcoholic and caffeine-free liquids, such as water and juices. Avoid other products that dehydrate the body such as energy drinks and sodas.

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 often.

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. Do not attempt to spend extended periods of time in the heat, especially if your body has not been acclimated to the conditions. Acclimatization to extreme weather conditions normally takes 10 – 14 days.

If you must be outdoors, use an umbrella or hat and sun screen and wear loose-fitting and light clothing. Rest frequently in a shady area.

Ask your physician whether you are at particular risk because of medication. Some medicines dehydrate the body.

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.

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.

Residents can call 207-2145 for more information on the Heat Plan.