Summer has arrived and with it, 100 degree days.

How we deal with the heat will determine how well we survive in it. So let's take a look at a few things to keep you from overheating, or worse.

Hydrate

This is a no-brainer. As your body tries to cool off it produces sweat, which needs to be replaced inside your body to help keep you cool and keep you hydrated. Try to avoid long exposure to the sun or out in the heat. And remember, if you have animals, you need to take care of them the same way. Keep them hydrated and don't leave them out in the hot sun for too long. Heatstroke is most common in people over the age of 65 as well as babies and young children, and expecting and breastfeeding mothers. If you have older family members living alone, be sure to check on them as well. Heatstroke occurs when the body temperature reaches and exceeds 104 degrees.

Cool Areas

Whether or not you have air conditioning, you need to stay cool in your home. Making sure your swamp cooler (evaporative cooler) is working at peak efficiency will help keep the temperature down some, and fans can help distribute the air. Keep shades drawn to keep the sun out as well.

If you went out the night before and drank heavily, the alcohol still in your system can cause unforeseen problems for you. Medications for high blood pressure, antidepressants and others can have a negative effect on you as well. Don't plan to be out in the heat for very long if you are dealing with issues such as these, as well as other issues

A few last thoughts on dealing with the heat. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink water, but stay after it. Keep cold water in the refrigerator and drink it often. Keep your home as cool as you possibly can. Set up fans to keep the air moving. And talk to people you know, see how they are doing in the heat and let them know how you are doing, especially if they are in the at-risk group. Set up a schedule of when you're going to call and stick to it. The worst feeling in the world is to succumb to the heat and have no one checking on you.

We hope you enjoy our long, hot summer and we hope you stay as cool as possible.

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