Summertime means school is out, the longest days of the year, and tons of fun in the sun. But if you aren't careful the rising temperatures could be dangerous for your family.

Keep a few of these tips in mind as you head outside and keep everyone safe this summer!

Stay cool!

• Don't leave kids or pets inside cars: cars heat up much faster than outdoor temperatures.
  Often a car will be about 20 degrees warmer, even if you leave a window cracked. Children,
  elderly, and pets are especially vulnerable to the heat because they can't cool themselves
  well. It may help to keep your phone in the backseat with your child, or pet, to remind you
  to take them out of the car when they are being unsually quiet. It can also help to keep a
  reminder in the front seat with you, like a child's toy or shoe.
• Clothing: wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing to keep cool.
• Stay cool indoors: if your home doesn't have air conditioning find a public building that
  stays cool. Examples are: libraries, malls, grocery stores, senior centers, etc. Even
  a few hours spent in air conditioning can lower your temperature back down to safe
  levels. Note: fans are not enough in temperatures above 90 degrees.
• Stay out of the worst heat: limit your outdoor activity when it is hottest outside. Try to plan
  your activities in the evening or morning. Rest in the shade often to keep your internal
  temperature down.
• Wear sunscreen: when your skin burns it will continue to heat your body- sometimes several
  hours after the inital burn. Keep your skin protected from burning by wearing long sleeves,
  pants, hats, and suncreen.
• Pace yourself: limit your exercise in the heat. If you have to exercise try to cut back and
  stay very aware of your body. Don't exercise without a partner. If you stop sweating,
  feel nauseated, or faint it is important you seek immedicate medical attention.

Stay hydrated!

• Drink plenty of liquids! Water is best, sugary drinks can cause you to loose more body fluid.
• Replace your electrolytes: water alone won't replace the salts and minerals you loose in sweat. If you are sweating heavily sports drinks can be a great way to replace what you lose.
• Don't forget your children and animals! Leave water in a shady spot for your pets and agricultural animals. Remind your children to drink often. It's important they hydrate before they start feeling thirsty.

Stay informed!

• Watch local weather reports and sign up for weather alerts for your area.
Find several here.
• Learn how to identify heat related sicknesses. Learn when to call for medical help.
The CDC has a guide here.
• Check on family and friends who live alone. When temperatures become dangerous
  make sure your neighbors have air conditioning, or offer to bring them to an
  area they can cool down.

Learn more about extreme heat and heat-related illness from the CDC.