Summer kicks in with extreme heat warnings in southern California

Times are heating up in southern California as temperatures are expected to soar this weekend, with a Los Angeles County Health Department Officer issuing an extreme heat alert for the next few days. L.A. is supposed to see temperatures peak in the high 80s and low 90s, according to The Weather Channel's website, although now it is 95 degrees in Monterey Park (my current location).

Today us Angelenos, along with everyone else in the heat warning areas, need to be extra careful. According the National Weather Service, heat is one of the leading weather-related killers yearly. How can someone tell if the heat is winning the battle against? The NWS has a list of heat-related illnesses, symptoms and solutions, along with hazards, facts and tips on staying safe from the sun: "Heat: A Major Killer." 

Also, don't forget the basics:

1. Drink plenty of water. I know it's hard to do on Fourth of July weekend, but avoid alcoholic beverages while in the sun or heat. This will only dehydrate you faster. If you feel you must have a drink, drink a glass of water in between beers or cocktails. This will help your body stay hydrated. 
2. Dress for the occasion. It's hot, so why not where something that will keep you cool. Loose, light clothing is they key here. Light colors reflect the sun and the heat, keeping you cooler in the sun. 
3. Don't get too much sun. Sunburns are never fun, trust me on this. Not only does it feel like your body is on fire, it reduces your body's ability to dissipate the heat, causing your body to overheat. 

It doesn't seem too hard to stay hydrated, but some forget or simply are too lazy to take the extra step to hydrate themselves. Don't be that person who's passed out and needs an ambulance ride to the hospital. This weekend should be a fun one, so don't ruin it for your buddies. 

LOCAL PLACES TO HELP YOU STAY COOL:

• Find a public swimming pool nearby, if you don't already have one. If you do have one, get your booty in it with tons of sunblock to help keep your body cool. 
• Go to the local library. Libraries normally have a nice, cool area for visitors to sit and relax while they read a book or newspaper. Not much of a reader? Then hang out in the comfy chairs and people watch.  
• Find a shade tree at the park to cozy up under. 
• Walk around your grocery store's frozen food section, where the freezers are usually on. 
• Get an umbrella to keep the sun off your neck, and a bucket of water to keep your feet cool. Feet regulate body temperature, so keep your feet cool to stay cool.