With Houston temperatures soaring near the triple digits, Cy-Fair Fire Department’s Justin Reed shares tips to help you stay safe.
Houston, TX (August 2025)—If you’ve ventured outside recently, you know: It’s pretty darn hot! Under a high pressure “heat dome,” temperatures are expected to climb close to triple digits this week—and thanks to humidity, the heat index (or “real feel”) probably will break that barrier. As we swelter under this latest heat wave, Cy-Fair Fire Department is urging the community to take heat safety seriously.
“Whether we reach 100 degrees or not, temperatures in this range can be dangerous—even deadly,” says Justin Reed, Cy-Fair’s assistant chief–EMS. “This kind of heat puts everyone at risk, but especially children, older adults, athletes, and outdoor workers.”
Did you know that heat-related fatalities annually outnumber those from hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes combined?
“I’ve seen firsthand the dangers of extreme heat,” says Reed. “It can cause heat exhaustion, heatstroke, permanent disability, and even death. However, heat-related emergencies are preventable with the right precautions. We’re asking everyone to stay aware, stay hydrated, and look out for one another during this stretch of dangerously hot weather.”
To help you stay safe, Reed shares some essential tips divided into three categories: BEFORE, DURING, and AFTER exposure to extreme heat.
BEFORE THE HEAT
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in extreme heat. Incorporating specific foods into your diet like watermelon and cucumbers can also help you stay hydrated.
“One simple way to ensure you’re drinking enough water is to monitor your urine,” shares Reed. “Drink enough so that you’re still peeing regularly, and your urine is relatively clear. Darker urine can be a sign of dehydration. Remember, your body loses water faster in the heat, so sip water throughout the day. No need to count cups or ounces; just pay attention to your body.”
Plan ahead for the heat. Schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late evening. The hottest part of the day is typically between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. If you can’t avoid the heat of the day, give yourself a break the day before!
Pay attention to “feels like” temps. The heat index (which combines air temperature and humidity) is a more accurate measure of risk.
Know your limits. “Be especially careful if you are not acclimated to the heat,” says Reed. “Even if you’re accustomed to working outside elsewhere, remember that our heat is different!”
Check your medications. Some medications can increase sensitivity to heat. Speak with your healthcare provider about how your medications might affect you during high temperatures.
“Additionally, many medications cause an increased risk of sunburn,” says Reed. “More than five sunburns doubles your risk of skin cancer!”
Don’t forget your pets. Provide plenty of fresh water and shade. “Remember, hot concrete can burn their paws,” says Reed. “If it’s too hot for you to walk barefoot, it’s too hot for them.”
DURING THE HEAT
Stay cool indoors. Spend time in air-conditioned places. “If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, consider visiting public places like malls, libraries, or community centers,” suggests Reed. “Make sure the air is moving around you to promote convective cooling!”
Dress appropriately. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing. A wide-brimmed hat can also help keep you cool, shares Reed.
Use sunscreen. Protect your skin from sunburn, which can hinder your body’s ability to stay cool. More than two people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour!
Avoid direct sun. Stay in the shade as much as possible and avoid strenuous activities during peak sun hours.
Try cooling techniques. “Contrary to popular belief, dousing yourself in water might make your heat stress worse,” says Reed. “High humidity can make it difficult for the water to evaporate from your skin, reducing the cooling effect. Use fans or a cool cloth on your skin instead.”
Don’t leave children or pets in parked cars. Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a vehicle can climb to dangerous levels within minutes.
Check on vulnerable neighbors. Seniors, young children, people with chronic health conditions, and pets are at highest risk. “Be sure to check on loved ones and neighbors—especially those without air conditioning,” reminds Reed. “While those of us in emergency services are always here for the community, everyone is safest when we all watch out for one another.”
AFTER EXPOSURE
Monitor for heat illness. Be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
“Symptoms of heat-related illnesses include heavy sweating, weakness, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and a rapid pulse,” shares Reed. “If someone shows signs of heatstroke, seek medical attention immediately.”
Cool down gradually. If you’ve been exposed to extreme heat, Reed advises cooling down gradually. Drink water, take a cool shower, or use a damp cloth on your skin. If you are in danger of heatstroke/exhaustion, rapid cooling is required, but otherwise, slow cooling is preferred.
Have a little R&R (rest and recovery). Give your body time to recover after being in the heat. Avoid strenuous activities until you’ve fully recovered.
Local libraries, community centers, and malls can serve as informal cooling centers.
Finally, be aware that urban areas can be significantly hotter than surrounding rural areas due to concrete, asphalt, and buildings absorbing and retaining heat, notes Reed. This can exacerbate heat-related health issues for city dwellers—and Texas city dwellers in particular.
“Texas heat is no joke,” he says. “It’s a relentless combination of scorching temperatures and stifling humidity. Unlike dry heat, our humid weather prevents sweat from evaporating, putting everyone at greater risk for heat-related illnesses. Following these tips can help us all stay safe and beat the heat.”