Belton firefighters go way beyond the call of duty

July 24, 2025

By David Stone

The Belton Journal

An elderly man who passed out while mowing his yard in 90-degree heat received more than medical care from Belton firefighters.

“We were dispatched for a medical emergency,” said Belton Fire Chief Jon Fontenot. “He had passed out because of the heat. He had some health issues as well.”

Firefighters arriving at the scene treated the man for heat illness and prepared him for transport to Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Temple.

As he was being transported to the hospital, firefighters decided to go back to the residence and finish up the man’s yard work. They mowed the yard and finished laying down sod for him.

“Our firefighters are very compassionate,” Fontenot said. “That is their nature — they are compassionate about helping people and giving back to their community.”

Summer in Texas comes with a warning: Stay safe when working or playing outside in hot weather. When temps hit the 90s or 100s, it’s important to take steps to avoid heatrelated illness such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Here are some tips to help you beat the heat:

Hydration

Drink plenty of water: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty; sip water regularly throughout the day, especially when you’re active outdoors.

Replenish electrolytes: If you’re sweating heavily, consider low-sugar sports drinks or coconut water to replenish electrolytes lost through perspiration.

Eat hydrating foods: Fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumbers, and berries have a high water content and can contribute to hydration.

Avoid dehydrating drinks: Limit or avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Staying cool indoors

Seek cool environments: If you don’t have air conditioning, spend time in cooled spaces like libraries, malls, or community centers. •

Close blinds and curtains: Block out sunlight during the hottest parts of the day to keep your home cooler.

Use fans strategically: Position fans to circulate cool air, and open windows at night to let in cooler air if the outdoor temperature is lower than the indoor temperature.

Take cool showers or baths: Cool water helps lower your body temperature and can provide immediate relief.

Limit heat-producing activities: Avoid using ovens, stoves, and other heat-generating appliances during peak heat hours.

Sleep on lower levels: Heat rises, so sleeping in a basement or on a lower floor can be cooler.

Consider a DIY air conditioner: Position a bowl of ice in front of a fan to create a localized cooling effect.

Staying cool outdoors

Limit strenuous activity: Schedule outdoor activities for the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.

Seek shade: Stay out of direct sunlight whenever possible.

Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight. Howdy Health suggests choosing fabrics like polyester, polypropylene, nylon, or nylon-blends, or even merino wool for their moisture-wicking properties.

Wear sun protection: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays by wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and a wide-brimmed hat.

Carry a spray bottle and umbrella: Spritz your skin with water and use an umbrella to provide personal shade when outdoors.

Recognize the signs of heat-related illness

Heat exhaustion symptoms: Include dizziness, headache, nausea, weakness, muscle cramps, and fatigue.

Heatstroke symptoms: Include changes in mental status (confusion, delirium), core body temperature above 104°F, seizures, and loss of consciousness.

Seek immediate medical help if you or someone you’re with experiences symptoms of heatstroke. By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your risk of heat-related illnesses and enjoy the summer safely