With summertime upon us, we are already experiencing big changes in our climate. Since May, the Houston area has experienced historic windstorms, tornadoes, and rising spring temperatures.

With the arrival of Pride month, those planning to attend or march in parades and other outside activities need to be aware of the possible obstacles the heat can cause.

In previous years, Pride Houston has seen heat-related injuries, President Kendra Walker told Houstonia Magazine how they had 4 cooling bus stations and they still experienced large amounts of attendees who developed heat-related illnesses. (https://www.houstoniamag.com/news-and-city-life/2023/06/pride-houston-changes)

“At the end of the day, we want a safe festival for everyone – for kids, for adults”

Organizers have been taking extra measures in order to bring a resolution to this 2024 parade.

As a person who has lived in Houston for 23 years, I have experienced the Texas heat, which has been getting worse as the years come. But let’s not let this heat exclude us from being a part of such a great environment with great people. (https://climatecheck.com/texas/houston#:~:text=Heat%20risk%20in%20Houston%2C%20TX&text=By%202050%2C%20people%20in%20Houston,more%20information%20on%20heat%20risk)

We also need to take those extra steps and prepare for what’s to come.

The Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-exhaustion/symptoms-causes/syc-20373250) has great information on the signs of dehydration and the dangers of heat exhaustion. According to their website, there are many factors that can contribute to heat-related injuries, including:

• Age
• Obesity
• Alcohol use

Preventing heat stroke just requires a little thought ahead of time. You might want to consider purchasing portable fans, lightweight clothing, and perhaps, most importantly, sunscreen.

Let’s all stay safe outside this summer and take care of ourselves and each other, Pride Month is about having a voice and letting others understand we are all humans regardless of our beliefs or the way we look.

How can you be an advocate or an ally if you happen to pass out?

Remember to work smarter, not harder.