IT’S HOT!! -The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory in Kleberg County for most of the week where temperatures reached as high as 106 degrees with heat index values between 111 and 116 degrees. If residents must be outside, reduce activities, drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks and wear light colored clothing. Pictured is the marquee of the Bank of South Texas, located at 300 E. King, at the height of the heat Monday afternoon. (Photo Heat warnings for Kingsville-Bishop area by Erika Hernandez) As temperatures push past 100 degrees across the Kingsville and Bishop area as well as much of the state, the Texas Department of State Health Services reminds people to be aware of the signs of heat illness and take precautions to protect themselves.

The elderly, young children, people with chronic diseases and those without access to air conditioning are most at risk.

Staying in an air conditioned area, either at home or at public places like malls, libraries or community centers, is the best way to combat heat.

If air conditioning is not available, open windows, pull down shades to keep out direct sunlight and use fans and cross-ventilation to cool rooms.

Other precautions:

Never leave anyone in a parked vehicle, even for a short time. Vehicles can heat up to deadly temperatures in minutes. Cracking the windows does little to keep temperatures down.

If a child sits in the back seat, also put a purse, briefcase, wallet or another essential item in the back seat in order to check and notice the child is there before exiting the vehicle.

Young children are particularly vulnerable to the heat because their bodies don’t regulate temperature as well. Call 911 immediately if an unattended child is seen in a vehicle.

Check frequently on older friends, neighbors and family members.

Visit at least twice a day and watch for signs of heat illness. Assist them with transportation to a location with air conditioning and make sure they know what to do if they experience heat illness. Most deaths caused by heat stroke occur in people over 50 years old. They are more likely to have a medical condition or be taking medication that can interfere with the body’s response to heat.

Take action at the first sign of heat illness. Symptoms of heat illness include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, nausea, weak but rapid pulse and headaches.

People with these symptoms should find shade, drink water slowly and make sure there is good ventilation. If symptoms don’t improve, seek medical attention.

Drink plenty of water.

Drink liquids 30 minutes before going outside and continue even if there are no feelings of being thirsty.

Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks.