Staying cool in the heat

Do your best to avoid these sweltering temps

It’s already been an unusually warm first half of 2012.

Winter amounted to, well, an early spring. And parts of early spring felt more like mid- to late summer.

There have been some cooler days here and there, but through June 26, we’ve already had more days in the 90s than some entire years and, on Thursday, the official temperature for Chicagland hit triple digits for the first time since 2005.

And, while the 100-degree readings were predicted to be a one-day occurrence, the high temperatures are forecast to be in the lower 90s through at least next Thursday.

What can you do?

First, avoid strenuous activities outdoors, especially during the hottest parts of the day. If you need to exercise, do yard work, or some other outdoor activity, try to do it in the early morning or in the evening. Of course, stay in air conditioning as much as possible.

Also, drink plenty of water. You need to keep your body hydrated all the time, but especially during extreme heat.

If you have children, make sure outdoor surfaces — car seats, picnic tables, playground equipment, etc. — aren’t too hot before kids come in contact with them.

Never leave your child or pets unattended in a car, even with the windows open.

Check on older family members, friends and neighbors to make sure they’re coping OK.

It’s looking like the high temperatures are going to be with us for several days. So be prepared to ride the heat wave out. Stay safe.

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The Morris Daily Herald Editorial Board is led by Publisher Gerry Burke and editors Patrick Graziano and Mark Malone. It makes its editorial decisions in consultation with other members of the Herald staff.