LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – As summertime temperatures continue to rise, residents both here in Lake County and around California are urged to take precautions to avoid possible health issues.

The National Weather Service is expecting temperatures to be in the high 90s this week, following a warm Independence Day weekend.

While the weekend's hot temperatures beckoned some people outdoors to enjoy time on the water, others experienced health issues as a result.

Northshore Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Steve Hart said paramedics reacted to numerous heat-related medical calls over the holiday weekend because of the higher temperatures.

The National Weather Service said monsoonal moisture is expected to work its way from the Sierra Nevadas through the interior of California late Tuesday through Wednesday, bringing the possibility of thunderstorms and higher humidity.

Because of the chances for higher humidity, forecasters urge anyone who is working or engaged in recreational activities to avoid prolonged sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day.

Dr. Ron Chapman, director of the California Department of Public Health, issued guidelines for avoiding health sickness, including reducing exposure to the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest, and keeping physical activities to a minimum during that time. When working outside, drink plenty of water or juice even if you are not thirsty, and take rest breaks in the shade.

Those spending time outside also should wear hats to help cover the face and neck, along with sunglasses the provide 100 percent UVA and UVB protection, as chronic exposure to the sun can cause cataracts, which left untreated, can lead to blindness. Use sunscreen of an SPF rating of 15 or more.

Because of the high temperatures inside cars, don't leave children, infants, the frail elderly or pets inside parked vehicles, as temperatures can climb to deadly levels, state officials said.

The California Emergency Management Agency has a list of summer heat resources at www.calema.ca.gov/NewsandMedia/Pages/Current%20News%20and%20Events/Summer-Heat-Resources.aspx.

For pets, which also are at risk during the hot summer months, the ASPCA's Web site at www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/hot-weather-tips.aspx offers tips for keeping pets safe from high temperatures.

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