Texas Accident & Injury News
Older adults are more at risk than other age groups for heat stroke injuries.
Project Cool Fan Accepting Donations for Seniors Faced With Excessive Heat in San Antonio
According to a KSAT News report, District 10 Councilman Marc Whyte and Catholic Charities are sponsoring Project Cool Fan this summer.
According to the report, seniors in San Antonio can call 2-1-1 to request a box fan. If you would like to donate a box fan, you can take less than five 20-inch box fans to any San Antonio Fire Department Station (except for Station 23 at the Airport). If you would like to donate more than five, you can take them to the St. Stephen’s Care Center anytime between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
If you would like to make a monetary donation, please mail a check in any amount payable to “Project Cool c/o Catholic Charities” to Catholic Charities of San Antonio located at 202 W French Place.
Did You Know?
Over 80% of the estimated 12,000 people who die of heat stroke every year in the U.S. are older than 60.
Tips for Seniors to Avoid Heat Stroke Injuries This Summer
San Antonio has already set multiple heat records this year, and summer has only just begun.
Seniors are far more vulnerable to heat stroke injuries, especially if they live without air conditioning. As we age, our bodies are less able to adjust to temperature changes. Fortunately, there are steps you can take as a senior in San Antonio to keep cool and reduce your risk of injury.
How to Stay Cool in Extreme Heat
The CDC has compiled a list of steps you can take to avoid overheating during these summer months:
- Wear only loose-fitting clothing.
- Drink water on a regular basis, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Take regular breaks, and don’t over-exert yourself.
- Always wear sunscreen when going outside. Sunburns make it harder for your body to cool down.
- Move slowly, stay in the shade when available, and wear a hat when outside to avoid overheating.
- Stay with a friend or family member during a heatwave if you don’t have A/C. You can also go to a local business or library during peak heat hours.
- Take a shower to cool yourself off if you’re feeling warm.
- Use alternative cooking methods (i.e., microwave, crockpot, pressure cooker, etc.) instead of your oven or stove to avoid raising the temperature of your home/room.
Signs of Heat-Related Illness
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
- Nausea/vomiting,
- Weakness,
- Dizziness,
- Confusion/lack of coordination,
- Rapid or abnormally slow pulse,
- Headaches,
- High body temperature,
- Feeling dry and hot (stopped sweating but still feeling warm),
- Excessive sweating and cold, clammy skin,
- Cramping,
- And swelling in the ankles or legs.
These can be signs of heat exhaustion and/or heatstroke. Heatstroke is life-threatening and can result in permanent damage, so don’t hesitate to call for help if you experience these symptoms. If you are caring for a senior who is exhibiting these symptoms, call 9-1-1 and sponge them with cool water while you wait for EMS.
Have You or a Senior You Care For Suffered Heatstroke? Call Carabin Shaw.
If the negligence of a nursing home, care provider, or employer caused your heat stroke injury, you may be eligible for compensation.
Carabin Shaw can help you find out if your heatstroke injury or injury to a senior you care for qualifies for free. Call our team today at 800-862-1260 or use the live chat for immediate assistance. We look forward to serving you.
Contacting a Carabin Shaw attorney is free and does not obligate you to work with the firm.