LaredoBuzz.Com

Courtesy Noraida Negron,

Laredo, Texas – The City of Laredo Fire and Police Departments ask the community to stay cool as temperatures increase to record highs in South Texas on Sunday, June 20 and Monday, June 21. According to the National Weather Service, heat index values will increase over the weekend with maximum temperatures of 110°F or greater by Monday. In the event of power outages, the City of Laredo is ready with a plan of action, including the opening of a cooling shelter.

Though there are no expected power outages by AEP, ERCOT has asked Texans to conserve energy as temperatures continue to rise. Management Coordinator and Laredo Fire Chief, Guillermo Heard, is already in contact with senior centers across the city to quickly implement the plan.

Everyone can be vulnerable to heat, but some more than others. Heat is considered to be one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year.

According to the National Weather Service, the following groups are particularly vulnerable to intense high temperatures:

· Young children and infants are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness and death as their bodies are less able to adapt to heat than are adults.

· Older adults, particularly those with pre-existing diseases, take certain medications, are living alone or with limited mobility who are exposed to extreme heat, can experience multiple adverse effects.

· People with chronic medical conditions are more likely to have a serious health problem during a heat wave than healthy people.

· Pregnant women are also at higher risk.

Below, are listed some of the main precautions the community can take while under an extreme heat warning:

· Avoid strenuous activities

· Wear light clothing

· Check on family members and neighbors

· Drink plenty of fluids

· Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke

· Never leave people or pets in a closed car

For any questions or to obtain any information, contact 311.