Essential summer heat safety tips for Marshall residents: hydrate, dress smart, and know when to seek care.
Marshall summers bring sun-filled fun—whether you’re catching a game at Maverick Stadium, enjoying live music downtown, or exploring the lush trails at Caddo Lake State Park. But with East Texas heat often reaching into the mid-90s and above, dehydration and heat exhaustion can sneak up fast.
Follow these expert tips from Dr. David Caltrider and Dr. Spencer Reynolds at HealthCARE Express Marshall to stay safe, cool, and ready to enjoy summer.
1. Hydrate Before You Head Out
Before you hit the trails or head to a family cookout, make sure your body is prepared. “Your body’s cooling system needs fuel, and that fuel is water,” explains Dr. Caltrider.
- Pre-event hydration: Drink 16–20 oz of water in the hour before going out.
- Reusable water bottle: Carry one with you to sip throughout the day.
- Electrolyte support: On active days, add a low-sugar electrolyte packet every 2–3 hours to replenish essential minerals.
- Avoid diuretics: Cut back on caffeine and alcohol, which increase fluid loss and worsen dehydration.
2. Dress for Marshall’s Sun & Humidity
From shady strolls through downtown to sunny afternoons at Lake O’ the Pines, smart clothing choices make a big difference.
“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: Choose lightweight fabrics that offer UV protection.
- Sun shields: Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas are your best friends.
- Sunscreen essentials: Go for SPF 30 or higher and reapply regularly, especially after sweating or swimming.
3. Time Your Outdoor Activities Around Peak Heat
Marshall’s highest temperatures usually hit between 1 PM and 4 PM. Plan your most active outings for earlier or later in the day.
- Early & late windows: Get yard work, jogs, or park visits done before 10 AM or after 6 PM.
- Midday breaks: Find air-conditioned comfort at local favorites like Marshall Mall or Central Perks Café.
- Seek shade: Use covered picnic areas or trees at city parks like Airport Park or the walking trail at Starr Family Health Center.
4. Recognize Heat Exhaustion Symptoms Early
Don’t ignore the warning signs. 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,” says Dr. Reynolds.
5. When to Seek Urgent Care for Heat-Related Issues
If symptoms escalate—such as confusion, vomiting, fainting, or a body temperature over 104°F—it’s time for medical help.
“Our Marshall clinic offers fast evaluation, IV hydration, and cooling treatments to help you bounce back quickly,” says Dr. Caltrider.
Visit HealthCARE Express in Marshall, TX
You can find us at 711 East End Blvd S, Marshall, TX 75670.
We’re open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM and Saturday from 8 AM to 4 PM.
Walk in or book online anytime.
