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Now what forecasters and weather geeks alike call a heat dome is firmly in place above us, let's go over some dealing-with-extreme-heat pointers courtesy of ready.gov.
-- Recognize signs of heat-related illness. Heat stroke symptoms include: extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) taken orally; red, hot and dry skin with no sweat; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness. Heat stroke is serious. If you suspect it in yourself or a family member of friend, call 9-1-1 or get the to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives. DO NOT give the person anything to drink. Also be mindful of heat cramps and heat exhaustion.
-- Older adults, children and sick or overweight individuals are at greater risk from extreme heat.
-- Humidity increases the feeling of heat.
-- Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature or prevent heat-related illnesses.
-- Identify places in your community where you can go to get cool such as libraries and shopping malls or contact your local health department to find a cooling center in your area.
--Cover windows with drapes or shades.
-- Weather-strip doors and windows.
-- Use window reflectors specifically designed to reflect heat back outside.
-- Add insulation to keep the heat out.
-- Use a powered attic ventilator, or attic fan, to regulate the heat level of a building's attic by clearing out hot air.
-- Install window air conditioners and insulate around them.
-- If you are unable to afford your cooling costs, weatherization or energy-related home repairs, contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for help.
--Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day.
--Take cool showers or baths.
--Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
--Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.
--If you're outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
--Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
--Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible.
--Check on family members, older adults and neighbors.
--Consider pet safety. If they are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet's feet.
Temperatures will be in the mid-90s throughout this week. High humidity will make it feel 100 degrees or more.
But like any other weather extreme we will get through this-- however uncomfortable and outright miserable we will be. And since it is only mid-June, who knows if more of this will show up as the summer moves onward? Just be smart and stay cool any way possible. It's called plain, old common sense.