DALLAS — As temperatures continue to rise in Texas, well above 90 degrees, Carla Gates worries there could be more heat-related injuries and deaths.  

Eugene Gates Jr. worked for the United States Postal Service for more than three decades. An experienced mail carrier, his wife, Carla Gates, tell us he was prepared for Texas’ brutal summers.  

“He would take at least 10 bottles of water,” said Carla Gates said. 

Carla Gates told Spectrum News 1 Eugene Gates purchased an ice machine, and each day at 3 p.m. he would call her to ensure the ice was ready by the time he got done with his shift. He wanted to have it ready to go for the next day.  

“He knew how to prepare for the weather,” she said. “He was a professional after 36 years. He knew how to prepare for it.” 

On June 20, 2023, Eugene Gates collapsed while walking, delivering mail. One of his customers administered CPR until medical personnel arrived.

“His body temperature was 104 when they cooled him off,” Carla Gates said. “I don’t even know what it was before they cooled him off.”  

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) fined the United States Postal Service $15,625.

According to OSHA’s report, Eugene Gates was transported to the hospital where he died from hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease aggravated by hyperthermia from the outdoor heat. The case hasn’t been closed because USPS contested the citation.  

Carla Gates says it could have been prevented.  

“I would like to see a law passed where no worker should be out when we have a heat advisory,” she said. “I would like to see that law passed in honor of my husband, Eugene Gates Jr.”  

On the day Eugene Gates died, Carla Gates says the heat index was 119. Beginning April 1 to Oct. 31, USPS implemented its National Heat Illness Prevention Program (HIPP). USPS also added the HIPP training to new employee orientation.

USPS said via email that carriers are reminded to ensure they’re hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, including hats, get in the shade whenever possible, and to take enough water and ice with them out on their routes.  

Carla Gates stressed that her husband took measures to stay safe. He had also been equipped with a mail truck with air conditioning, but on that day was driving a truck without it. She’s still unsure why.  

Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, has asked the House Oversight Committee to investigate USPS but has not received a response. Her office tells us it is a top priority for the congresswoman and she will keep pushing.  

“Carriers are further instructed to contact 9-1-1 in the event they begin experiencing any symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, and they are provided with information to help them identify the symptoms associated with these two forms of heat illness,” USPS told Spectrum News 1 in a statement.