Heat Advisory

Hey kids! It's your local journalist here, reporting to you what you should maybe know since it's usually hotter down there than it is here, and we've been issued warnings to stay safe this weekend, as the heat index is expected to be around 110 degrees. These are the fact boxes that go with my story: Learn something!

Tips for staying safe in the heat:

-RELAX. Avoid strenuous activity. If it is a must, do it between 4-7 a.m.
-FIND A COOL PLACE. Stay indoors in the air conditioning or on the lowest floor of your house, out of the sunlight. Operate fans. You may also want to visit a neighbor or head to a public place like the library or the mall.
-STAY HYDRATED. Drink water. Take in more fluids than you are losing. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
-PROTECT YOUR BODY. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to deflect the sun's heat. Wear sunglasses and waterproof sunscreen with an spf of 30 or more. Reapply as needed. Wear shoes outside to avoid painful burns on feet.
-ADJUST EATING HABITS. Eat smaller meals more often throughout the day.
-MONITOR CHILDREN, THE SICK AND THE ELDERLY. These groups are the most vulnerable. Be sure to check on elderly neighbors, especially those without air conditioning. Regularly monitor those with high blood pressure or heart disease. Make sure kids take play breaks to cool down and drink water or sports drinks (to replenish electrolytes). Pedialyte is also effective in infants and small children.
-COOL DOWN SLOWLY. If you do become overheated, use cold compresses around your neck and wrists to cool off. A cold shower could send your body into shock.
-BRING PETS INDOORS. If they must stay outside, may sure they have a supply of cool water at all times.
-NEVER LEAVE A PET OR A CHILD UNATTENDED IN A VEHICLE

Danger signs:

-Dry mouth
-No tears
-Sunken eyes
-Reduction in urination, dark-colored urine
-Skin that stays compressed when pinched
-Light-headedness, dizziness
-Thirst
(More advanced signs)
-Rapid or weak pulse (more than 100 at rest)
-Cold hands and feet
-Rapid breathing
-Blue lips
-Confusion
-Lethargy