The summer heat is in full force. Temperatures are expected to be in the upper 80’s and 90’s this week with the heat index surpassing that. With a few tips from the Cooper County Public Health Center there are ways to ensure that you and your family remain safe as the mercury continues to rise.

• Limit your time in the sun when the sun’s rays are the strongest (between 1 and 4 p.m.).

• Wear protective clothing such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts and hats with a 4-inch brim all the way around.

• Use sunscreen of at least an SPF of 15 or higher. Apply generous amounts to the skin 30 minutes prior to going outside. Reapply every two hours.

• Use a lip balm of SPF 15 or higher.

• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, as they give off damaging UV radiation like sunlight.

Besides receiving a burn, there are a number of heat illnesses that can become a serious threat. The first sign that there might be trouble are heat cramps.

For the rest of the story, read the Monday, July 28 print edition of the BDN.