DARLINGTON — High temperatures are expected over much of Wisconsin in the next several days, and Lafayette County Health Department is reminding residents to take steps to stay cool, hydrated and informed during the heat wave. 

Follow these tips to stay safe during extreme heat:

 Stay in air conditioning when possible. If air conditioning is not available at home, head to libraries and other public spaces to keep cool. 

♦ Check on loved ones. Be sure to check on older friends and neighbors who live alone and don’t have air conditioning. 

♦ Avoid outdoors during the hottest part of the day. If being outside is necessary, stick to the cooler morning and evening hours. Wear light, loose clothing and take frequent, air-conditioned breaks. 

♦ Beware of hot cars. Never leave a person or a pet in a parked car, even for a short time. On an 80-degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes.

♦ Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and hot, heavy meals.

♦ Stay informed. Watch local weather forecasts so outdoor activities can be planned safely. Pay attention to any extreme heat alerts.

Feeling overheated, weak, dizzy, nauseated or experiencing muscle cramps could be signs of heat illness. Move to air conditioning, drink water, get under a fan and put on cool washcloths. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve, go to the emergency room. 

For more information, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services’ heat safety webpage and watch their heat safety video or contact the Lafayette County Health Department at 776-4895 or visit https://www.lafayettecountywi.org/healthdepartment/page/heat-safety.