This summer is forecasted to be a hot one. Heat alerts, which are released when the temperature reaches 38 degrees C or above, will be released throughout the summer by the Medical Officer of Health. The following are some recommendations from the Middlesex-London Health Unit to take into account during this burning-hot summer.

- Limit time in the sun between 11 am and 4 pm.
- During extreme temperature conditions, stay indoors and if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to a shopping mall, library, recreational facilities, or heat-relief shelters.
- Be aware of signs and symptoms of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Follow first aid procedures.
- When in the sun, wear protective sunglasses, loose-fitting clothes.
- Apply sunscreen SPF 15 (or higher) 20-30 minutes before going outside to ensure absorption.
- Drink lots of water and natural juices.
- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages, coffee and cola.
- Take a cool bath or shower periodically or cool down with cool wet towels.
- Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or sleeping outside in direct sunlight.
- Avoid intense physical activity

You should do the following when a friend or relative is dealing with a heat illness like sunburn, heath cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

- Call for help.
- Remove excess clothing from the person.
- Cool the person with lukewarm water, by sponging or bathing.
- Move the person to a cooler location.
- Give the person sips of cool water, not ice cold water.

If a person has a heatstroke you should first call 911. It is important to NOT give fluids to a heatstroke person.

For more information visit Middlesex-London Health Unit at www.healthunit.com, and don't forget to stay "cool" during the summer.