Heat waves and high temperatures can create dangerous situations in which heat-related illnesses are possible.

Children and the elderly are most susceptible to heat stroke.

No person or pet should stay in an enclosed vehicle even for a short time.

Temperatures quickly rise to life-threatening levels, even if the windows are left partially open.

Here are some tips for coping with excessive heat.

•Use air conditioners or spend time in air-conditioned locations such as malls, libraries and movie theaters.

•Use portable fans to exhaust hot air from rooms or draw in cooler air.

•Take a cool bath or shower.

•Minimize direct exposure to the sun and stay indoors.

•Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or other nonalcoholic fluids. Avoid liquids with caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar.

•Eat light, cool, easy to digest foods such as fruits or salads.

•Wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing. Avoid wearing heavy or dark clothes.

•Check on older, sick or frail people who may need help responding to heat.

•Know the symptoms of excessive heat exposure and how to respond.

For those who must be out in the heat, limit outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours, cut down on exercise and rest often in shady areas. Put on a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.

This article is provided by Ventura County Public Health, a division of the Ventura County Health Care Agency.