Now that summer is in full swing across the country, it means that for most of us, we’ll be experiencing some high temperatures. At the end of last week, and the beginning of this one, we got a taste of things to come as the most of the country experienced oppressive, record-breaking temperatures and humidity.

When the thermometer starts edging up, and the humidity feels like a wet blanket, it’s important to take steps to stay cool and protect yourself against the effects of the heat, which can result in serious conditions such as heat exhaustion, or worse, heat stroke.

And, if you have any medical conditions such as respiratory problems or severely high blood pressure, it’s especially important to protect yourself. Most of us work in air-conditioned offices and have it in our homes and our cars. Staying in an air-conditioned environment is one of the best ways to beat the heat. But, if you don’t have air conditioning, consider taking in a movie for a few hours to help you cool down. Here are some other tips to stay cool:

• Limit your activities during the hottest times of the day, especially if you have ongoing health problems such as respiratory or cardiac problems, or high blood pressure.
• Drink plenty of fluids to replace any you lose from sweating, but stay away from alcoholic or sugary drinks.
• Try to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing.
• Leave the windows of your car open a crack when you park, and try to park in the shade. Or, get one of those folding screens that you can but on the dashboard to block the sun. When you come back to the car, open the windows and let it cool down before you get in. (The temperature inside a closed automobile can reach over 120 degrees!)
• Learn to recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Dizziness, rapid heartbeat, profuse sweating and nausea are a few. If you begin experiencing these symptoms seek medical help. It’s better to be safe than sorry.