The Phelps/Maries County Health Department issued a Hot-Weather Health Advisory that continues through today.

Based upon the National Weather Service’s prediction that the heat index would continue to hover at 105 degrees through today, the Health Department issued the advisory Tuesday and offered the following tips as protection against heat-related illness:

1. Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated;

2. Avoid strenuous work or exercise outside during the hottest part of the day. If avoiding work is not practical, take frequent breaks and remember to drink plenty of water;

3. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing;

4. Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine;

5. Check on the elderly, young children and pets;

6. Never leave infants, children or pets in a parked vehicle;

7. Do not rely on fans as a primary cooling device. Avoid sitting directly in front of a fan; fans recirculate room air and may actually increase body temperature and the risk of heat-related illness. If air conditioning is unavailable, visit a store, public library or other air-conditioned facility. The City of Rolla has offered the lobby of The Centre at 1200 Holloway St. from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. as a cooling site;

8. Check with a pharmacist or doctor to find out if the medication you are taking puts you at increased risk for heat-related illness;

9. Avoid hot foods and heavy meals;

10. Know the signs and symptoms of heat stress or heat exhaustion: heavy sweating; dizziness; fainting; growing pale; headache; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; and exhaustion or weakness.

Each year, more people in the United States die from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods and earthquakes combined, according to the Health Department.

Groups especially at risk include the elderly, chronically ill, children under 4 and anyone who works or exercises vigorously outdoors.

More information about heat-related illness may be obtained from the Phelps/Maries County Health Department at 458-6010.