“Obesity also puts you at higher risk for heat stroke because your body is bigger and it is more difficult for it to cool itself and your heart is already under strain. It is fine for bigger people and older individuals to workout inside, but I wouldn’t recommend for them to go out in the heat,” Butler said.

She said dehydration is another heat-related illness that people can get from being in the sun too long.

“Normally your internal sensor will make you feel thirsty and your mouth is dry,” she said. “If that happens, make sure and drink plenty of water.”

However, she said, people taking fluid pills may have low-grade dehydration and may not even recognize symptoms.

“It is important that you drink extra fluids, but not caffeine or alcohol. Sports drinks are good for most people because they have electrolytes that your body loses. You should alternate that with water.”

The first phase of dehydration is feeling thirsty.

“That is when you should automatically know to drink something,” Butler said.

“But if people don’t notice that, then they should be aware of the second signs which are mild dizziness when you stand, a quick heartbeat and decreased (and yellow) urination.

For people who are diabetic or ill, even the second stage can be detrimental.

Butler said there are also some medicines that put people at higher risk of heat-related illnesses: fluid pills, beta blockers and anti-cholinergics, most medicines that control bladder or prostate problems and heart or blood pressure medicines.

Sunburns can be a serious issue; that’s why sunscreen is important.

“When you damage the skin, you lose a lot of fluids and it puts you at risk for infections. If you think you have an infected sunburn, see a doctor,” Butler said.

Symptoms of an infected sunburn are cloudy drainage and increased redness in the area beyond a couple days.

The biggest risk comes from overexposure to the heat, whether it is through exercise, sun bathing or simply sitting in a hot room. Physical work and exercise outside can increase the risk.

Mike Ades of Batavia takes his granddaughter to Ottumwa Park every Monday, even when it’s hot, but he makes sure he is prepared.