Fall is back to playground time for kids. Bt beware of heat exhaustion and heat strokes.

There are precautions that can help protect you against the adverse effects of heat stroke. These include the following:

· Drink plenty of fluids during outdoor activities, especially on hot days. Water and sports drinks are the drinks of choice. Avoid caffeinated tea, coffee, soda, and alcohol, as these can lead to dehydration.

· Wear lightweight, tightly woven, loose-fitting clothing in light colors.

· Schedule vigorous activity and sports for cooler times of the day.

· Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a hat, sunglasses and using an umbrella.

· Increase time spent outdoors gradually to get your body used to the heat.

· During outdoor activities, take frequent drink breaks and mist yourself with a spray bottle to avoid becoming overheated.

· Try to spend as much time indoors as possible on very hot and humid days.

· Never leave children or pets in closed cars on warm or sunny days.

If you live in a hot climate and have a chronic condition, talk to your doctor about extra precautions you can take to protect yourself against heat stroke.