FIRST ALERT IN EFFECT: Summer Heat Safety Tips

An ABC-7 First Alert remains in effect due to the extreme heat expected later this week.

ABC-7, the El Paso Fire Department and the Extreme Weather Taskforce would like to remind the public to stay safe in the heat with the following tips:

— Know the signs of heat-related illnesses. These include in order of progression: heat rash, sunburn (sunburn reduces the body’s ability to cool off), heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency.

— Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the sun.

— If possible move outdoor work to morning or evening hours.

— Wear light-colored, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.

— Drink plenty of water and replace electrolytes. Avoid heavy meals, caffeine and alcohol.

— Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink water.

— At minimum, you should be drinking eight, 8-ounce glasses of water a day.

— Protect face and head; wear a wide-brimmed hat.

— Sunscreens with and SPF of 30 or more applied 30 minutes prior to going outside should be applied to all surfaces that will be exposed the sun.

— Check on friends and family, especially the elderly.

— NEVER leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.

— Ensure pets have plenty of water and access to shade throughout the day.