Sunday marked summer solstice, the beginning of summer and the longest day of the year. With temperatures expected to reach triple digits this week, it’s nice to know the amount of daylight will begin decreasing, but not by much, mind you.
Even as the days shorten, we can count on more scorching temperatures as summer continues. High pressure in the central part of the United States is keeping any hopes of relief at bay.
Temperatures in the Temple area are forecasted to be in the 100s for the next five days.
AccuWeather indicated temperatures will reach 101 degrees today. The record temperature for June 23 was set in 1936, with a temperature of 103 degrees. The highest recorded temperature in Temple was set in 1947 with 112 degrees.
Needless to say, it’s time for residents to be aware of the heat and take precautions, especially those who work outdoors.
Gillmeister Roofing in Temple will have its roofing crews start earlier in the day, in order to finish their shifts before high temperatures are reached, according to Brandi Soliz, business manager. To keep the workers hydrated, the crews are furnished daily with lots of ice water and Gatorade.
Because of the nature of their job, high temperatures make a fireman’s job especially uncomfortable.
The high temperature, the 30-plus pounds of protective gear firemen wear and the fire can add up to dangerous working conditions. The gear is worn to protect the men from the fire, but it also acts as an insulator, trapping in body heat, said Thomas Pechal, Temple Fire and Rescue spokesman.
“Once the fire is out or under control we try to get them out of the turnout coat as quickly as possible,” he said.
Every engine carries several gallons of ice water for the crew and there are people who monitor the firemen and make sure water breaks are taken, Pechal said.
“The major emphasis is they look out for each other,” he said.
As a community, it’s important to be aware of the well being of senior neighbors.
The risk of heatstroke among older people is more than 10 times that of a younger person, said Dr. Robert Roush, director of the Texas Consortium of Geriatrics.
The American Red Cross issued a checklist of how to stay safe in the heat:
-Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.
-Drink plenty of water and other fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
-Air conditioning provides the safest escape from extreme heat.
-If you can’t leave home, stay indoors as much as possible. Keep fans on and windows open to prevent heat buildup.
-Check on family, friends and neighbors.
-Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity.
-Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors.
-Be alert to heat-related illness symptoms.
