High temps + high desert = caution

Summer in Northern Nevada often means hot weather. While we have been fortunate enough to have a mild summer compared to the Plains and the East Coast, there is still a chance of heat illness and dehydration in our dry climate. People who are at highest risk are the elderly, the very young and those with chronic diseases, but even young and healthy people can get sick from the heat if they do not take precautions to protect themselves when the mercury rises.

Luckily, there are steps you can take to ease the discomfort of hot weather and protect yourself from heat-related illness:

• Stay in a cool location: During the hottest part of the day, it may be a good idea to stay in the air-conditioning. If you don't have air conditioning at home, you could visit a friend who does, or a public location such as the library, a coffee shop, or the mall.

• Drink plenty of fluids: When it is very hot or if you are very active, be alert for signs of dehydration. Symptoms include a decrease in urination, a dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing up. Pay special attention to young children to ensure that they are drinking enough fluid.

• If you have to be outside, wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and plenty of sunscreen. Stay in the shade to avoid overheating.

• Schedule outdoor activities carefully: If you have to do strenuous outdoor activities like yard work or exercise, schedule them for early in the day before the temperature rises or late in the evening after it cools off a bit. Pace yourself and don't overdo it.

• Take cool showers or baths to cool down, or visit the lake or a pool for a refreshing summer swim.

• When the temperature rises, check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you. This is especially important for elderly people who are at higher risk of heat illness.

• Do not leave children or pets in cars: The temperature in a car can climb rapidly on hot days, putting occupants at risk of sickness or even death.

Summer should be a time for fun in the sun, and by following these tips, you too can enjoy a safe and healthy season.

For more information about other Health Department services, check out our website at www.gethealthycarsoncity.org or visit us at www.facebook.com/cchhs .

Carson City Health

and Human Services

900 E. Long St., Carson City

775-887-2195

Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and Friday; call for appointment.

Well-child visits: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays.

Men's clinic: 4-6 p.m. Mondays.

Immunization Day: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.; 1-4:30 p.m. Thursdays.

Douglas County

Community Health

1538 Highway 395 North

(Corner of Spruce Street and Cemetery Lane). Call 775-782-9038 for more information.

Clinic hours: 8:30 a.m. to noon Monday; 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday.

Monday afternoon is Immunization Day: No appointment needed, 1-4:30 p.m.