And today it was H O T in Texas. It hit 100 degrees with an index of 107 (that's too early in the season for me).  There was no way to Beat The Heat today climbing in the attic at 3:30 this afternoon.

We had not yet turned on the air-condition; but as I sit here this evening we are increasing the electric bill that we pay each month to PEC (Pedernales Electric Coop).

Here are a few Safety Tips to remember this summer when you are out and about in this Texas Heat.                      

                                   How hot weather affects your body and "My Attitude"

Hot weather puts extra stress on your heart and lungs. To dissipate heat, more blood circulates through your skin. This leaves less blood for your muscles, which increases your heart rate. If the humidity is high, your body faces added stress because sweat doesn't readily evaporate from your skin - which only pushes your body temperature higher. We have had some really humid days.

Under normal conditions, your skin, blood vessels and perspiration level adjust to the heat. But these natural cooling systems may fail if you're exposed to high temperatures and humidity for too long. The result may be a heat-related illness, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

                                        To keep it cool, keep these basic precautions in mind

■Drink plenty of fluids. Your body's ability to sweat and cool down depends on adequate rehydration. I usually drink water or Gatorade. These drinks can replace the sodium, chloride and potassium you lose through sweating. Avoid drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol, which actually promote fluid loss.

■Dress appropriately. Lightweight, loosefitting clothing promotes sweat evaporation and cooling by letting more air pass over your body. Wear light colors and a hat or cap.
 
■If you must exercise, avoid midday sun. Exercise in the morning or evening - when it's likely to be cooler outdoors - rather than the middle of the day. If possible, exercise in the shade or in a pool.

■Wear sunscreen. A sunburn decreases your body's ability to cool itself.

■Have a backup plan. If you're concerned about the heat or humidity, stay indoors. Work out at the gym, walk laps inside the mall or climb stairs inside an air-conditioned building.

Know when to call it quits
   Be on the lookout for heat-related illness. Signs and symptoms may include:

■Weakness
■Headache
■Dizziness
■Muscle cramps
■Nausea or vomiting
■Rapid heartbeat

                     ( I think I had all of the above this afternoon when I finished my home inspection)

If you suspect a heat-related illness get out of the heat. Drink water, and wet your skin with cool water and get in front of a fan.     ____________________________________________________________    

                             This Texas heat is not anything to reckon with; be sure to protect yourself.

Your Home Inspector...Carl Winters, Advanced Inspector License #3630. I'm honest, dedicated & will even crawl the attic in 100 degree Texas weather. You can reach me at 830-660-0131 or 210-494-2257.

Homes, Septic Systems, Condos, Swimming Pools, Commercial Property, New Home Phase Inspections. Licensed by TREC and TRCC Registered and NAWT Certified in Texas.  Complete Inspection Service (since 1994.    home-inspection4u@yahoo.com

http://www.home-inspectin4u.com            Thank You Carl & Ceil Winters

Blog June 11, 2009 Localism for New Braunfels, Canyon Lake TX. Member of Active Rain Real Estate Network - Serving Comal, Bexar, Kendall, Hays, Guadalupe counties.