Ways to beat the heat

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Now that summer has officially begun, many people will be playing outside. To stay safe in the heat, the Center for Disease Control has some guidelines to follow.

It is important to drink 16 to 32 ounces of liquid each day. When someone is playing outside, they are losing salt and other minerals that need to be replenished. Sports drinks are very helpful in putting vitamins and minerals back into the body.

Another way to help fight the heat is to spend some time in a cool, air conditioned place. If you don't have air conditioning at your house, go to a shopping center or a library. The Red Cross on Third Street in Terre Haute is also open from 10 a.m. Until 4:30 p.m.

One danger with playing outside that some don't think about is the temperature of playground equipment. Some pieces can get up to 120 degrees. It is very important to make sure kids play wisely on this equipment.

Some health problems with this hot weather include heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Some symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion include a headache, dizziness, and a fast pulse.

If someone does get heat stroke or heat exhaustion, it is very important that they drink plenty of water and seek a cool area immediately.

As always, make sure to drink plenty of water and apply appropriate sunscreen.