Planning to take in a local outdoor event, watch a ballgame at Wakanda Park, walk the Red Cedar Trail or play a rousing game of pickleball or tennis this week? The Mayo Clinic Health System provides tips to stay safe and stay cool as temperatures are projected into the 90s throughout the week and into the upper 80s for the weekend.

• Stay cool. Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If you do not have air conditioning, consider a shopping mall or public building, such as a library, to help cool down. Do not rely solely on box fans during extreme temperatures.
• People over 65 may not tolerate sudden changes in temperature as well as younger people. Check on older adults more frequently, and ensure they are drinking enough water.
• Stay hydrated. Don’t wait until you are thirsty. Water and sports drinks are the most effective warm-weather drinks.
• Avoid alcohol, as it can make you more dehydrated.
• Eat lighter meals.
• Wear lightweight clothing or loose-fitting clothes.
• Protect yourself against sunburn, which affects your body’s ability to cool itself. Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your eyes and skin.
• Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day.
• Check on friends, family and neighbors. Ask them to do the same.
• Make sure your pets have plenty of water.
• Do not leave anyone or pets alone in a vehicle. Each year, multiple children die after being left in hot cars. This is never a safe practice — even if you crack the windows.
• Stay informed. Watch your local news and weather for updates.

Preventing illness isn’t always possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you are concerned someone is showing signs of a heat-related illness, including a heat stroke. Those signs and symptoms may include a fever of 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) or greater, confusion or agitation, heavy sweating and vomiting.

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