How to Stay Safe in the Longview...

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Essential summer heat safety tips for Longview residents: hydrate, dress smart, and know when to seek care.

Longview, TX summers bring days filled with backyard barbecues, splash-pad fun at Heritage Plaza, and outdoor movies at LeTourneau University. But East Texas heat, often climbing into the mid-90s and above, can quickly lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion. Follow these expert-backed tips from Dr. David Caltrider and Dr. Spencer Reynolds at HealthCARE Express to stay cool and safe all season.

 

1. Hydrate Before You Head Out 

Whether you’re packing a picnic for a Lear Park concert or chasing the kids through the Heritage Plaza splash pad, it is important to keep your body cool. One way to do that is to prepare before you head out for the day. “Your body’s cooling system needs fuel, and that fuel is water,” says Dr. Caltrider.

  • Pre-event hydration: Drink 16–20 oz of water in the hour before leaving home.

 

  • Reusable water bottle: Pack your reusable water bottle before leaving; it is an easy way to take hydration breaks throughout your day. 

 

  • Electrolyte support: For high-activity days, add a low-sugar electrolyte packet every 2–3 hours to replenish sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
     
  • Skip diuretics: Limit caffeine and alcohol—they increase fluid loss and worsen dehydration..
     

 

2. Dress for Longview’s Sun & Humidity

Transitioning from the cool exhibits at Longview World of Wonders to an evening film under the stars demands smart apparel. “Cover up during peak sun hours and reapply sunscreen every two hours—heat rash and sunburn only make dehydration worse,” advises Dr. Reynolds.

  • UPF-rated clothing: Clothing specifically designed to protect you from ultraviolet rays that can be harmful. UPF measures the amount of UV radiation the fabric allows to reach your skin. The higher the number, the more the protection. 

 

  • Sun shields: Sun shields are anything that protects you from the sun. They include hats or wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses. You can also use beach umbrellas or beach tents to block out the sun. 

 

  • Sunscreen essentials: Sunscreen acts as your frontline defense against the sun’s harmful UV rays, helping prevent painful burns and long‑term skin damage. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) tells you how much UVB is blocked—SPF 30 filters about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks around 98%. Since no sunscreen offers 100% protection, reapply every two hours, and immediately after swimming, splash‑pad fun, or heavy sweating, to keep your skin fully shielded.


 

3. Time Your Outdoor Activities Around Peak Heat

Longview’s daytime highs typically peak between 1 PM and 4 PM. Plan your most strenuous outings, like yard work or browsing the Longview Farmers Market, for cooler times of day.

  • Early & late windows: Schedule yard work, jogging, or park visits before 10 AM or after 6 PM when temperatures dip.
     
  • Midday breaks: Seek air-conditioned relief at Longview Mall or local cafés around noon.
     
  • Shade spots: Look for covered benches and pavilions that block the sun and provide cool shelter from the heat.

 

4. Recognize Heat Exhaustion Symptoms Early

Heat exhaustion can escalate rapidly. Watch for:

  • Heavy sweating, weakness, or dizziness
     
  • Muscle cramps, headache, or nausea
     
  • Cool, clammy skin with a rapid pulse
     

“If you or someone you know shows these signs, move to shade immediately, sip cool water or a sports drink, and apply damp cloths,” explains Dr. Reynolds.

 

5. When to Seek Urgent Care For Heat-Related Issues 

If symptoms worsen, including confusion, vomiting, fainting, or body temperature above 104°F, you need professional help. Dr. Caltrider emphasizes:

“Our Longview clinic offers rapid evaluation, IV fluids, and cooling treatments to get you back on your feet.”

HealthCARE Express in Longview is here to help. Stop by our clinic at 1509 W Loop 281, Longview, TX 75604. We are open convenient hours, and you can book your visit online or walk in anytime.