While it might seem short, summer in the Upper Peninsula usually has the benefit of being pleasantly warm rather than hot. However, in recent days the region has seen temperatures consistently in the 80s and should hit the mid-90s on Friday.

With that in mind, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is reminding all residents on ways to stay cool.

MDHHS routinely reviews emergency department data for heat-related illness. Since July 1, more than 600 ED visits due to complaints including sunburn and sun poisoning, heat exhaustion and heat stroke and dehydration were reported. Daily temperatures this week are anticipated to again rise above 80 degrees, which generally correlates with an increase in emergency department visits for heat-related illness.

“It’s important Michiganders stay hydrated and out of the sun as much possible to avoid serious health complications during this hot weather,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health. “Young children, older adults and those who are have medical conditions are at increased risk for heat-related illness, so be sure to check frequently on them and others in your community who may need additional assistance.”

To prevent complications from the heat, residents are encouraged to:

— Drink more fluids and avoid liquids with large amounts of sugar and alcohol.

— Limit outdoor activities to when it’s coolest in the morning and evening.

— Spend time indoors in air conditioning.

— Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing.

— Wear sunscreen, as sunburn affects a body’s ability to cool down.

— Check on elderly neighbors and relatives to determine if they need assistance.

In addition to staying hydrated and out of the sun, residents are reminded to never leave children or pets alone in a vehicle even with the windows cracked. Temperatures inside a car can easily be double the temperature outside, and because a child’s body heats up three to five times faster than an adult’s, they are more susceptible to heatstroke.

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are both forms of heat-related illness. Signs of heat-related illness vary but may include: heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, fainting, an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F) and tiredness. Heatstroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature and can result in death if not treated promptly.

For more information about how to protect against heat-related illness, go to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website, https://www.cdc.gov/.