SAFD: Heat exposure call increasing

Department responded to 326 calls from May 1 to Aug. 10

SAN ANTONIO – The South Texas heat can be unforgivable and dangerous at certain times of the day. The San Antonio Fire Department said heat exposure calls are on the rise.

From May 1 to Aug. 10, SAFD responded to 326 heat exposure calls. That number is up compared to 2015 when they responded to 243 calls in the same time period.

"Your earliest signs will be cramps, heat cramps. You'll feel tightness in your muscles, (because) you aren't drinking enough water," said Joe Arrington, SAFD spokesman.

Those symptoms will be followed by heat exhaustion and even a heat stroke.

"If you don't limit that exposure, that heat stroke can go to major organ failure or brain damage to even cardiac arrest," Arrington said.

The best way to avoid becoming a victim is to drink plenty of water and stay out of the heat.

Anyone who doesn't have access to air conditioning or a cool spot to beat the heat can visit any one of cooling centers around the city. Anyone is allowed and they’re free to use. 


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