HOUSTON — Houston officials urged residents to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated and check on vulnerable neighbors Wednesday as a heat advisory pushed temperatures into the triple digits.
Mayor John Whitmire said the city is especially concerned about outdoor workers and residents without access to air conditioning.
“We want to make sure everyone is safe. Check on your neighbors, your family members, your friends,” Whitmire said.
Whitmire encouraged residents to drink plenty of fluids, avoid prolonged sun exposure and take precautions during the hottest parts of the day.
To provide relief from the heat, the city opened 112 cooling centers at public libraries, multi-service centers and recreation centers, including the Fonde Recreation Center near downtown. The Houston Office of Emergency Management has posted a list of cooling center locations.
The mayor also said the city is reviewing its registry of vulnerable residents through the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR), which helps emergency officials identify people who may need additional assistance during disasters. About 3,800 people are currently enrolled in the voluntary program.
The Houston Office of Emergency Management recommends drinking plenty of water, avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon heat, wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing and taking frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces.
Officials also reminded residents never to leave children, older adults or pets inside parked vehicles and to call 911 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke.
Residents who need transportation to a cooling center can call 311 for assistance. Officials also encourage people with access or functional needs to enroll in the STEAR program before emergencies occur.