State Dept. of Public Health Heat Advisory

The state Dept. of Public Health issued a heat advisory yesterday, to remind people to take precautions this week during the heat wave. High temperatures and humidity levels are being forecasted into the weekend.

The Dept. of Public Health recommends the following:

• Stay out of the direct sun. Seek shaded or air conditioned areas such as libraries or malls.
• Whenever possible, schedule outdoor events (public gatherings, sporting events) early in the morning when it's cooler and air quality is better.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Wear light-colored, light-weight clothing. Use hats with brims and sunscreen for more protection.
• Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and both UVA and UVB protection before you go outside, even on cloudy days.
• Reapply sunscreen after swimming or sweating or after staying outside for more than two hours.
• Elderly, small children and people with chronic health conditions are more vulnerable to the heat. Call and check on friends, family and neighbors. 
• Anyone showing signs of heat stroke (altered mental state, not sweating, nausea) should seek medical attention immediately.