North Texas is bracing for another round of triple-digit heat this week, and experts are urging residents to take smart, proactive steps to stay cool—and keep loved ones safe.
With highs expected to hit 100 degrees or more by midweek, the National Weather Service says this latest heat wave will come with high humidity and little overnight relief. That makes it especially dangerous for seniors, pets, and people who spend long hours outdoors.
At home, energy experts recommend keeping blinds or curtains closed during peak sun hours, using ceiling fans counterclockwise to circulate air, and avoiding ovens and stoves during the hottest part of the day. Setting thermostats a few degrees higher and using programmable settings can also reduce strain on the grid and save on electric bills.
In your car, the best advice is to never leave pets or people inside, even with the windows cracked. Interior temperatures can climb 30-40 degrees above outside temps within minutes. Auto experts suggest carrying windshield sunshades, parking in the shade, and keeping emergency water bottles in the trunk.
For pets, the rule is simple: if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Vets recommend walking dogs early in the morning or after sunset, keeping paws off hot pavement, and providing constant access to shade and fresh water.
For seniors and vulnerable neighbors, check-ins are critical. The Texas Division of Emergency Management urges people to call or visit older relatives or neighbors at least once a day during heat advisories. Some counties also offer free transportation to cooling centers for those who need relief but can’t get there on their own.
Cooling centers, libraries, and rec centers across the Dallas-Fort Worth area are open to anyone needing shelter from the heat. You can find a list of locations on the city’s website or by dialing 211.
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