St. Louis Gets Scorching Temps Memorial Day Weekend (Twitter.com/ @StaciStatic)

If you are from the Lou then you already know how our weather gets down. People are often shocked to find just how hot and humid it can be here. If you are visiting or just need to be reminded here are a few tips to help you get through this super scorcher and more to come this summer. Stay safe!!!

The Centers for Disease Control offer these basic recommendations that will help prevent heat stroke, sun stroke, dehydration and other potentially dangerous situations that easily develop in times of extreme heat:

1. Do not leave children or pets in cars.

Even in cool temperatures, cars can heat up to dangerous temperatures very quickly. Interior temperatures can rise almost 20 degrees within the first 10 minutes, even with car windows left open. Anyone left inside is at risk for serious heat-related illnesses or even death. Children who are left unattended in parked cars are at greatest risk for heat stroke and possibly death. When traveling with children, remember to do the following:

• Never leave infants, children or pets in a parked car, even if the windows are cracked open.

• To remind yourself that a child is in the car, keep a stuffed animal in the car seat. When the child is buckled in, place the stuffed animal in the front with the driver.

• When leaving your car, check to be sure everyone is out of the car. Do not overlook any children who have fallen asleep in the car.

2. Drink plenty of fluids.

Make sure to avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. During hot weather, you will need to increase your fluid intake, regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.

3. Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen.

Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Although we know small amounts of sun exposure can be beneficial for Vitamin D, overexposure can lead to dangerous sunburn.

If you must go outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat (also keeps you cooler) along with sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.

4. Stay cool indoors.

Stay indoors and, if at all possible, stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library. Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.

5. Schedule outdoor activities carefully.

If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.

Try to rest often in shady areas so that your body’s thermostat will have a chance to recover.