Seniors find ways to stay cool during triple-digit heat
In the past few months, four people in El Paso have died because of heat related illness. Two of them were senior citizens. So how are they handling the heat?
ABC-7’s New Mexico Mobile Newsroom spoke with seniors at the Munson Center in Las Cruces.
93-year-old Carmen Valdez and 69-year-old Leonardo Haney joined their friends for some cool relaxation Thursday. The two were well aware of the dangers associated with high heat. They shared how they stay healthy and cool in hot conditions.
“You can drink one quart of warm water,” Haney said. “When you do that, you’re getting about half the water you normally need for the whole day.”
“It’s hot so I try to stay away from outside,” Valdez said. “I stay inside, mostly I come to Munson Center and go home and rest.”
According to a Las Cruces Police spokesman, the last heat related death was 4 years ago.
Here are some tips from LCPD for staying cool:
Those working outdoors are encouraged to drink plenty of water, or non-alcoholic and sugar-free fluids. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing that’s loose-fitting that allows for better air circulation. Limit or avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. Protect skin with a wide-brimmed hat and a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Provide proper shade and plenty of fresh water for pets, and leave water in a shady area. Avoid walking pets in the heat or early evening hours as hot pavement can blister their paws. Do not leave dogs in the bed of a pickup as surface temperatures can rise quickly. Consider leaving pets indoors on hot days. If it’s too hot outdoors for you, it’s too hot for them. Always lock your car when unattended and teach children that vehicles are never to be used as play areas. Check on family and friends often, and ensure that elderly family or neighbors have properly working air conditioning units. Call 911 immediately if you see a person or pet left unattended in an enclosed vehicle.
