FORT WORTH (1080 KRLD) - Health officials in DFW are reminding everyone to be extra cautious after a reported spike in heat related illnesses.
The dog days of summer are officially here, and health officials say its more important than ever to stay cool.
Since the beginning of July, MedStar crews treated 165 patients for heat relayed illnesses. Of those patients, MedStar's Matt Zavadsky says more than 100 had to be taken to the hospital and 14 were critical.
"It's a good time for people to remember: This is North Texas. It's August," Zavadsky says. "Be careful."
Zavadsky says working outside for a prolonged period of time-- even over several days-- can put you at risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. His advice? Stay hydrated, wear light colored, loose fitting clothes and limit your time outdoors.
If you notice yourself overheating and showing signs of heatstroke, Zavadsky says don't wait-- you need to call 911 immediately.