With temperatures rising near or above 90 degrees this week and through the Memorial Day weekend, Iowans are reminded to take care of their health in the heat.

The Iowa Department of Public Health is recommending people increase fluid intake to say hydrated, choose lightweight clothing, and wear sunscreen to avoid heat-related illness. Washington County Public Health administrator Danielle Pettit-Majewski says staying hydrated is important especially when you’re sweating, “Staying hydrated is going to help you in a number of ways, because especially when it’s really hot, I mean, you’re sweating to keep yourself cool, and so if you’re sweating heavily and you’re not replacing that water your electrolytes are going to become off balance and then you could become ill, like if you’ve heard of heatstroke. And that can really make you ill, so making sure that you stay hydrated, you put on that sunscreen, you seek shade, and really try to just be cognisant of protecting your skin, and trying to stay as healthy as possible.”

She adds that shade can be very beneficial, “Shade is actually really valuable for people of every age. So, especially during the peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., that’s when the sun’s rays are the strongest and you’re most likely to burn. So, definitely make sure you’re putting that sunscreen on, but also seeking shade when you can find it.” IDPH recommends staying in air conditioned areas as much as possible, and use a buddy system to watch for heat-induced illness.