People with chronic conditions, obesity, heart disease, and those with poor blood circulation are more likely to undergo heat exhaustion.
DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF) – On Thursday, Aug. 11, Dallas County Health and Human Services reported their second heat- related death. A 77-year-old male with underlying health conditions suffered from a heat stroke. DCHHS Director Dr. Philip Huang says residents need to take it seriously when they are outdoors.
“We encourage everyone to take precautions to protect themselves and their children from heat-related illness as temperatures remain high throughout the summer,” said Dr. Huang
While the CDC has lifted the mask mandate for public and private transportation, Dr. Huang says people still need to remain cautious when going outside.
“We want people to get vaccinated for Covid and still do things that if you’re sick to stay home. For heat exhaustion and heat stroke, we definitely want people to stay in cool places,” said Dr. Huang
DCHHS has partnered with another agency to provide low income families with free window AC units.
“We’re very happy to offer this service and the partnership just received more support from the Meadows foundation. It’s not just getting a fan because a fan can just bow around that hot air,” he said. “You really need air conditioning.”
Christian Gonzales with the Dallas County Health and Human Services says people staying in a house or apartment without air conditioning is a health risk.
“They’re not borrowing the ac units. We are giving them away to anyone who needs them. Now to qualify, we verify income. So, we basically verify income for the last 30 days,” said Gonzales.
To apply for a free window ac unit or to see the requirements, call (214) 819-1976 or ask about the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program.
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