Hey, AUS travelers we know Central Texas summers can bring serious heat. Whether you’re heading to baggage claim, waiting on rideshare, or exploring Austin, staying safe from high temperatures is important. On behalf of our partners at Austin Public Health, we’re sharing some simple tips to help keep you cool and safe when the temps rise.

Why It Matters

Austin summers bring high temperatures and humidity, which can lead to heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or you’re a local flying out, hydration and staying cool are key.

Who’s Most at Risk?

Anyone can feel the effects of extreme heat, but some folks are especially vulnerable, including:

• Infants and Children: Young children and infants’ bodies are limited in how well they can cool themselves.
• Older Adults: Older adults are vulnerable to heat, especially if they have additional health issues, take medications, live alone, or have limited mobility.
• Chronic Medical Conditions: People with chronic conditions are more likely to have a serious health problem during a heat wave.
• People who Work, Exercise, or Play Outside: Community members with outdoor jobs, or who exercise or spend time outside, make up a large percentage of heat-related illnesses.
• People who are Pregnant: Extreme heat events are associated with adverse effects, including low birth weight, pre-term birth, and infant mortality. 

That’s why it’s a good idea to check on friends and family, especially during heat advisories.

Watch for Exhaustion and Heat Stroke Symptoms

Knowing the signs of heat-related illnesses can help you or someone around you get help faster.

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:

• Cool, pale, clammy skin
• Weakness or dizziness
• Heavy sweating
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fast, weak pulse

What to do for someone experiencing heat exhaustion: 

• Cool them and move them to a cooler spot
• Loosen clothing
• Sip cool water slowly

If symptoms do not improve, last longer than an hour, or the victim begins vomiting, seek medical help. Heat exhaustion can quickly lead to heat stroke within minutes. 

Heat Stroke Symptoms (This Is an Emergency):

• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Confusion or dizziness
• Body temperature over 103°F
• Lethargy or loss of consciousness

If you or someone near you is showing signs of heat stroke: Move them, cool them, call 911.

• Get them into an air-conditioned space if possible
• Use cool cloths or a cool bath to lower body temperature
• Do not give fluids or anything by mouth if the person is unconscious or confused

Simple Ways to Stay Safe

• Drink water regularly, even if you’re not feeling thirsty
• Take shade or A/C breaks when outdoors
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
• Protect yourself with a brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

For more travel tips while you’re flying through AUS, check out: Travel & Security at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport | AustinTexas.gov. For general information, customer service, and assistance. The airport’s 24/7 customer service phone number is 512-530-2242.