Seniors, small children, people with chronic illnesses, those on certain medications or drugs (especially tranquilizers and anticholinergics), and persons with weight and alcohol problems are particularly susceptible to heat reactions, especially during warm and humid weather. If you know anyone with one of these conditions, call or visit them during a heat wave, especially if they live alone.

Here are some heat wave safety tips that can help you avoid a potential summer killer:

Slow Down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day. Individuals at risk should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.

Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.

Put less fuel on your inner fires. Foods (like proteins) that increase metabolic heat production also increase water loss.

Drink plenty of water or other non-alcohol fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool,. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty. Persons who (1) have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease or (2) are on fluid restrictive diets or (3) have a problem with fluid retention should consult their physician before increasing their consumption of fluid.

Do not drink alcohol beverages.

Spend more time in air conditioned places. Air conditioning in homes and other buildings markedly reduces danger from the heat. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, spending some time each day (during hot weather) in an air-conditioned environment like a shopping mall affords some protection.

Don’t get too much sun. Sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation that much more difficult.

If any person experience heat stroke or exhaustion, get medical help immediately. Symptoms of heat-related illnesses may include: headache, dizziness, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low pulse rate, disorientation, unconsciousness or convulsion. Other symptoms may include cold, pale and clammy skin or hot, flushed dry skin.