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Who’s more at risk - The elderly, children, and people with certain health conditions are more vulnerable to extreme heat.

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Stay indoors - If possible, avoid being outdoors, especially during the hottest hours of the day.

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Keep your home cool -

Good home insulation can go a long way in preventing heat from coming into the house and maintaining a cool temperature inside.

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Air conditioning - If you have air conditioning, check if it’s working properly. Look out for any insulation problems.

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Fans -

Although electric fans don’t cool down the temperature as such, they can help circulate the air.

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Cool down - A cool shower or bath can help reduce body temperature.

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Get out of the house - If you're unable to keep your house at a safe temperature, go to a mall, library, or any other public space with air conditioning.

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Clothing - Wear light, breathable clothing and choose loose-fitting garments.

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Stay hydrated - Make sure you drink plenty of fluids, even if you're not very thirsty. Opt for water instead of sugary drinks.

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Drinks - Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated drinks such as tea and coffee, as these have a mild diuretic effect.

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Physical effort -

Avoid strenuous activities and exercise in general.

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Look out for vulnerable people - Ensure any family members, friends, and neighbors are safe.

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Animals - Make sure all animals have plenty of water available and adequate shade.

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Windows - Place reflective materials on your windows such as cardboard with aluminum foil. This will reflect the heat.

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Windows - Cover your windows during the day with blinds, shades, or curtains.

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Windows - Weather strip your windows. This will ensure that hot air stays out and cool air stays in the house.

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Doors - Keep doors shut and weather strip any doors that connect to the outside of your house.

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Stay tuned - Check the weather forecast to stay on top of what’s happening. This way you can prepare accordingly.

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Food - Eat light meals. Your body is already working hard to control your body temperature, so don’t strain it even more by making it digest calorie-dense foods.

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Diet - Speak to your doctor if you're on a special diet, especially one with low sodium intake, as this can make you more prone to dehydration.

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Health - Watch out for signs of heat-related problems. Here’s what to look for.

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Sunburn -

If your skin becomes red, hot, and painful after sun exposure, this is probably a sign of sunburn.

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Sunburn: what to do? - Ointments can help in mild cases, but more serious burns should be seen by a physician.

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Heat cramps -

Spasms and muscle pain following activity may mean that you’re suffering from heat cramps.

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Heat cramps: what to do? -

Massaging and stretching the cramped muscles may help relax them. Sip on water, but stop if nausea occurs.

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Heat exhaustion -

Cold sweats, nausea, headache, and a weak pulse are some of the symptoms.

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Heat exhaustion: what to do? - Lie down, cool off, and sip water. Seek medical assistance if vomiting occurs.

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Heatstroke -

Symptoms include fever, hot skin, weak pulse, and shallow breathing. A victim of heat stroke can become unconscious.

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Heatstroke: what to do? -

This is an emergency situation. Seek medical assistance immediately.

See also: Watch out for these summertime illnesses

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