Hot weather has decided to come knocking on our door early this year.  After all, we don’t usually start talking about heat safety until around the end of June – but we’re experiencing summer-type heat almost a month before the “official start” of summer – which is Friday, June 21st.

Record high temperatures are expected to continue the rest of this week and into the first full week of June.  With temperatures in the 90’s on a daily basis, and overnight lows in the mind-to-upper 60’s it certainly feels more like July and August than late May and early June

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention about 400 people die on a yearly  basis from exposure to excessive heat and many more die from health conditions worsened by exposure to excessive heat.

The CDC says that the “heat index” is more important than the actual temperature, because it takes humidity into account to determine how hot it actually feels outside. 

The heat index for our area has been in the mid-to upper 90’s for several days now and that trend is expected to continue.

Important tips to remember:

• If air-conditioning isn’t available in your home, try going to a public building, such as a library.
• Avoid strenuous exercise and or working in the heat.  Those who must work outside should take frequent breaks.
• Check in with family, friends and neighbors often to make sure they have proper air-conditioning or shelter, especially those who live alone or who may be at higher risk for heat-related conditions, especially the elderly.
• Drink plenty of water, even when not thirsty.
• Cover your body with light and lightly colored clothing to help prevent overheating; wide-brimmed hats and sunscreen are also advised.
• “Look before you Lock” – remember, children and pets should NEVER be left in a hot vehicle.