Extreme heat: Stay hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion, stroke during hot summer months

Doctors and health experts are warning people about the signs of overexposure to the Sun. Be sure to stay safe as a possible heat wave looms and is expected to bake a large part of the Mid-Atlantic and New England states this week with the heat index rising to as high as 101 degrees.

You need to take steps to hydrate an avoid direct exposure to the sun as much as possible.

Any outdoor activities should be done when the Sun is not at its strongest, generally between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Children or Pets should not be left in a car for even a single minute under these conditions and anyone who sees a pet left in a car should not hesitate to call 911.

Here is the American Red Cross safety tips that you can follow as the temperatures soar:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat. Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of shade and cool water.
• If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should choose places to go to for relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day (schools, libraries, theaters, malls).