Summer in Houston is a time of vibrant festivals, outdoor concerts, and endless sunshine. With Houston City Beat, Mike Acosta and I continuously have multiple opportunities to film across different areas of our great city, from the bustling streets of Downtown to the scenic trails of Memorial Park. But let me tell you, it's not always easy. The heat and humidity can be overwhelming, especially when you're carrying equipment and trying to get the perfect shot.
I remember one day in particular, we were filming segments at the Kemah Boardwalk and Space Center Houston. The sun was beating down on us, and the humidity was through the roof. We were sweating buckets, but made sure to take breaks every few minutes just to cool off and rehydrate. We also had to protect our equipment from the heat. But despite the challenges, we were determined to get the shot. And in the end, it was all worth it – the footage was stunning, and our viewers loved it.
But Houstonians have been finding ways to beat the heat for decades. In the late 1950s, builders began developing indoor, air-conditioned shopping centers like Sharpstown, Northwest, Almeda, and Northline malls. By the time the Houston Galleria opened in 1970, shoppers were accustomed to air-conditioning. And in 1965, let us not forget the Astrodome was built as the world's first fully climate-controlled domed stadium, specifically designed to escape Houston's subtropical climate.
Working as a media outlet, I know firsthand how important it is to stay hydrated, especially when working in the heat. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. When your body loses more fluids than it takes in, it can't cool itself properly, leading to a range of symptoms including dizziness, fatigue, and headaches.
So, how can you stay cool and hydrated in Houston this summer? Here are some tips:
· Visit the Houston Museum District, which offers a range of air-conditioned museums and galleries to explore. Find them here: https://houmuse.org/
· Take a stroll through the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center or the Houston Botanic Garden, where the shaded trails and gardens provide a peaceful oasis from the heat.
· Cool off at one of Houston's many pools or waterparks. For a link to Houston's public pools, you can find that here: https://www.houstontx.gov/parks/swimming.html
· Take advantage of Houston's many shopping malls, which offer a cool and comfortable space to shop and dine.
· Visit Space Center Houston, where you can learn about space exploration while staying cool and hydrated.
· Explore the Houston Zoo, which offers a range of shaded areas and air-conditioned exhibits to beat the heat.
· Attend a sporting event, such as a Houston Astros game at Minute Maid Park, where the retractable roof provides a comfortable space to watch the game, complete with 7,700 tons of air-conditioning.
· Take a break at one of Houston's many parks and green spaces, such as Memorial Park or Buffalo Bayou Park, which offer shaded areas and water features to cool off.
In addition to beating the heat, it's essential to stay hydrated. Here are some tips:
· Drink plenty of water throughout the day
· Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine, which can exacerbate dehydration
· Take breaks in shaded areas and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day
· Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
· Monitor your body's hydration levels and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of dehydration
· Don't forget about the many hydration options out there - including one of my favorites, Hydration Multiplier by Liquid-IV. You can find it here: https://www.liquid-iv.com/
Staying hydrated and cool is crucial to enjoying all that Houston has to offer during the summer months. So, grab a water bottle, slip on your sunglasses, and enjoy your Houston summer!