I don’t know what it’s like in your neck of the woods, but here in the Nation’s Capital we’re sweating it out under a heat advisory, and politics has nothing to do with it.

Temperatures this past weekend (June 6 and 7) hit the high-90s, and Monday and Tuesday this week they will be hovering near 100 degrees. Add in the humidity and it will feel like 105.

As we move into summer, remember that elderly persons are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness. Your chances of getting sick in hot weather are increased if you suffer from:

• High blood pressure
• Circulation problems
• Diabetes
• Previous stroke
• Infections or fever
• Weak or damaged heart
• Asthma and other respiratory conditions
• Diarrhea

Warning signs of heat illness include:

• Headache
• Nausea, dampness, chills
• Weakness or fatigue
• Dizziness or periods of faintness
• Rapid breathing
• High body temperature
• Dry, hot skin
• Severe muscle pain
• Anxiety or listlessness
• Unconciousness

If you see an elder relative or friend that appears to be having these symptoms, first call 911; lie the person on their back; loosen their clothing or remove it (if possible); give the person sips of water (but only if they are alert and can swallow); raise their feet a foot from the ground; fan their skin; apply cool, wet cloths to their skin; and move the person to a cool area if possible.

Prevention, of course, is the best approach. Tips include:

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water
• Avoid hot and heavy meals
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
• Try to sit in a shady area
• Wear a hat and loose clothing
• Avoid alcoholic and caffenated beverages
• Stay out of the sun
• Visit a cooling center in your area

The above information comes from the Washington, D.C., Department of Health.