This July, Prevent Heatstorke and Drowning

Published 07/01/2026

Stay Safe This Summer

July is one of the hottest months in Texas. That means we need to be extra careful, especially outdoors. Two big dangers in summer are heatstroke and drowning.

Heatstroke

Tips to avoid heatstroke:

Drink lots of water when playing or working outside.

• Consider alternatives such as coconut water, buttermilk, juices, lightly salted water, and broth. The additional electrolytes may help prevent heat-related injury.
• Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeinated beverages.

Rest in the shade often.

• Wear cool, breathable, or lightweight clothes.
• Always put on sunscreen to protect your skin.

Monitor car access.

• Never leave kids or pets in cars.
• Cars get hot very fast, even on cloudy days. 
• Visit Safe Riders Pediatric Vehicular Heatstroke Dangers in Texas | Texas DSHS to learn more.

The symptoms of heat stroke can differ from person to person but often include:

• Absence of sweating due to the body's inability to cool down and release heat.
• Confusion, convulsions, dizziness.
• Hot, dry skin.
• Uncontrollable muscle twitching.
• Slurred speech.
• Rapid, weak pulse.
• Throbbing headache.

If you or someone around you is showing signs of heat stroke, you should:

• Call 9-1-1
• Submerge the person in a cold water or ice bath, if possible.
• Wet their skin and apply cold wet cloths.
• Soak clothing with cool water.
• Enhance air circulation around the person for faster cooling.
• Apply cold wet cloths or ice packs to the head, neck, armpits, and groin.

Drowning

Always watch children closely when swimming, working, or playing near the water. Teach them to swim and make sure everyone wears life jackets at lakes, rivers, and pools. Don't let yourself get distracted while watching swimmers. Learning CPR can help in an emergency.

Let’s make July safe for everyone. If we pay attention, we can stop accidents and keep Texas families safe all summer. 

Upcoming events for Injury Prevention Champions:

• Free Center for Forensic Science Research & Education (CFSRE) webinar series (occurring through 07/21/2026) – “Investigating and Certifying Drug Caused and Related Deaths: 2026 Updates and Challenges”. Register here: forensiceducation.brightspace.com/d2l/home/6845 
• 2026 International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners (IACME) Annual Conference 07/19/20926-07/23/2026. Options for in-person (Las Vegas) and virtual. Includes workshop for investigating drug toxicity related deaths. More info and registration here: Spring Conference - International Association of Coroners & Medical Examiners

The Injury Prevention Unit celebrates Texas Injury Prevention Champions all year long. These champions are public health professionals and everyday Texans working to prevent injuries and create a safer, healthier Texas.

Do you know a Texas Injury Prevention Champion making a difference in your community? Nominate them to be featured in our Champions of Texas Injury Prevention Newsletter and webpage.