Jul 10, 2009 3:51 pm US/Central
Dallas Agencies Helping Residents Beat The Heat
Arezow Doost
DALLAS (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
North Texans are dealing with 100 degree temperatures and another heat advisory.
"It's uncomfortable," says Victor Ochoa, who is working outside.
Ochoa and his team of landscapers say they're taking a lot of breaks today and drinking more water than usual.
"We still have to work," says Ochoa "I'm in construction too so I'm used to it."
With temperatures hitting 103 and 104 – it feels like 110 degrees
The Dallas Health Department says there have already been 2 heat related deaths this summer. Tarrant County says they have had no deaths, but a number of heat-related illnesses have been reported.
They spent Friday installing free air conditioning units in homes of families in need.
"Everyone should check on elderly neighbors on days like today," says Dallas County Health and Human Services director Zackary Thompson.
DCHHS says take these precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses:
*Increase time in air-conditioned environments
*Drink water and avoid alcohol consumption when outdoors
*Exercise only during cooler parts of the day
*Take cool-water baths
As temperatures continue to top 100 degrees – health experts say look out for heat exhaustion symptoms like paleness, dizziness and vomiting.
Dallas Fire-Rescue are also helping the needy. At La Voz de Ancianos in West Dallas more than 350 fans are being given away. The fans were donated by local Home Depot stores.
"My den is so hot this will help," says Margaret Perkins.
The Salvation Army's cooling stations are in full swing as well. People have been stopping by to get water and cool off inside.
On hot days like Friday the Salvation Army says they normally see a big spike in the number of people using their services.
Click Here for a list of local Salvation Army cooling stations.
Health Director Zachary Thompson urges Dallas County residents to
call 311 to see if they qualify for a free air conditioning unit installed by the health dept.
Click Here for more information.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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