12 tips to stay safe, conserve in summer heat

We've had a small taste of the summer season in the past week or so, as the heat index has climbed into the high 90s.

Those of us who have lived in the area for any length of time, know what to expect in terms of stifling days ahead.

But it's always a good idea to freshen up on ways to stay healthy when the mercury rises. Here are some tips, according to local and national health experts:

* Pay attention to your symptoms, and act. Get out of the heat at the first sign of not feeling well.

* Drink lots of water, even if you're not thirsty. Avoid alcohol or high-sugar drinks.

* Wear light-colored clothing.

* If you're working, take frequent breaks.

* Understand your medications. Some of them can affect the way your body reacts to the heat.

* If you don't have air-conditioning, find a cooling shelter.

On the economic side of beating the heat, here are some tips to help conserve energy while keeping your house cool, according to the Department of Energy's website, energy.gov:

* Avoid setting your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn on your air conditioner. It will not cool your home any fater.

* Turn off ceiling fans when you leave the room. Fans cool people, not rooms, by creating a wind chill effect.

* When you take a shower, use the bathroom fan to remove the heat and humidity from the home. Make sure the air is vented to the outside, and not just to the attic

* Avoid using the oven to cook

* Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes. Consider air drying dishes and clothing

* Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120 degrees Fahrenheit).

Stay cool, everybody.