This weekend the outdoor temperature is expected to reach record-breaking highs, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses: heat rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke (a medical emergency). Adding to the risk will be high humidity, which restricts the evaporation of sweat – the body’s way of cooling itself.

Heat-related illnesses occurs when the body loses large amounts of water, salt and other essential nutrients through excessive sweating. To reduce your risk: Drink about 1 qt. of cool drinking water per hour. If you can’t get into an air-conditioned space, sit or lie down in a cool, shady area. Soak a cloth in cool water and use as a compress on your face, neck and head.

Heat-related illnesses can happen to anyone. Those at greater risk are the elderly and the young, those taking certain medications, such as antihistamines, and those with health issues, such as heart, lung or kidney problems, and compromised immune systems.

And, don’t forget about your pets! They also need fresh, cool drinking water and shade. Pay attention to high surface temps, which can burn paws.

Please, do not wait until you’re thirsty to drink water or until you feel sick to cool down. Here are some common symptoms of heat-related illness.

Heat exhaustion: cool, moist skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea or vomiting; dizziness; light-headedness; weakness; thirst; irritability; and fast heartbeat. The individual should be taken to the emergency room if symptoms do not improve or get worse within 60 minutes. Do not return  to strenuous activity for the rest of the day.

Heat stroke: excessive sweating or red, hot, dry skin; confusion; fainting; seizures; and very high body temperature. Any one of these symptoms indicates a life-threatening condition. Dial 9-1-1 or take the individual to the emergency room.