LAKEPORT, Calif. – Knowing how to prevent heat-related illness is important this week as temperatures continue to rise.

“Heat-related” illness refers to heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat stroke due to exposure to the sun or hot temperatures.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include excessive thirst, headache, dizziness, flushed skin and cramps.

More serious symptoms of heat stroke, which requires immediate medical assistance, include nausea or vomiting, difficulty catching your breath, a high body temperature (104 degrees or higher), confusion, passing out, or seizures.

It’s important to stay safe during excessively hot temperatures.

According to the Red Cross, steps to staying safe in a heat wave include tuning in to weather alerts and being aware of heat advisory warnings, and taking refuge in an air-conditioned environment during the hottest time of the day.

Never leave a child or an animal alone in a vehicle. Drink more water than you think you need, stay indoors, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.

Take frequent breaks if you must be outdoors, and check on family, friends, and neighbors who don’t have air conditioning.

If someone begins to show signs of heat-related illness, get him or her to a cooler place and rest comfortably. Give fruit juice, milk, or water to drink. Remove or loosen clothing, and closely monitor for more severe symptoms. If he or she vomits or has a change in consciousness, call 911 right away.

Morgen Wells is community relations and fund development coordinator at Sutter Lakeside Hospital.