With forecasted high temperatures in the 90’s this week, it’s important to remember some tips on how to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Adair and Guthrie County Emergency Management Coordinator Bob Kempf recommends during these hotter days to stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible, and to limit outdoor activity to the coolest times of the day like the morning and evening. He also advises that if you’re not used to working or exercising in a hot environment to start slowly and pick up the pace gradually, “The main thing is making sure that you are drinking plenty of water on a regular basis, with a lot of our underlying conditions it’s very important to stay well hydrated. And of course as always try to limit the intake of alcoholic beverages if you’re out in the heat, they appear to satisfy your thirst but actually they cause further dehydration of the body with taking more fluid out of your body.”

Kempf adds to drink more fluids regardless of how active you are, and sports drinks can help replace the salt and minerals removed from your body through sweat. Another way to prevent getting dehydrated is to wear sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.