You don’t have to be outside long to realize it’s hot.

Extremely hot.

You have our sympathy if you have air conditioning problems in your home or vehicle.

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) advises the public to pay attention to the warning signs of heat-related illnesses, which occur when the body’s temperatures control system is overloaded, according to the ADPH.

“People should drink plenty of water, stay in an air-conditioned room, and keep out of the sun. The public should also check on elderly relatives, neighbors and friends, and ensure pets have plenty of water to drink and shade to cool off. Everyone needs to adjust their activities and be alert to warnings that signal help is needed,” according to the ADPH release on heat safety.

Warning signs of a heat stroke vary but include:

An extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees F)

Red, hot and dry skin (no sweating)

Rapid, strong pulse

Throbbing headache

Dizziness

Nausea

Confusion

Unconsciousness

If you or someone you know begins experiencing these warning signs, it is important to cool the person rapidly in a tub of cool water or get them in the shade.

Whatever can be done, get cold water on these people.

“Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. A person with heat stroke is likely to be unconscious or unresponsive, so he or she cannot safely consume any liquids. Under no circumstance should a person with heat stroke or any heat-related illness be given alcoholic beverages,” according to the ADPH.

The ADPH recommends following these preventive measures to avoid heat-related illnesses:

Drink more fluids, and avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.

When temperatures are extreme, stay indoors, ideally in an air-conditioned place.

Take a cool shower or bath and reduce or eliminate strenuous activities during the hottest times of the day.

Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and use of a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.

Never leave pets or people in a parked vehicle.