InstantnewsBellaire.com

City of Bellaire officials are passing along tips from Harris County health officials to help residents during the recent hot weather. Residents are also urged to check on the elderly, children, or those who are ill, and to ensure that pets have adequate shade and water. Tips include:

• Stay indoors as much as possible. If you don’t have air conditioning, stay in the coolest part of the house and use electric fans.
•  
• Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Your body needs fluids to keep cool. Avoid beverages with caffeine and alcohol.
•  
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you work outside, do it during the coolest part of the day.
•  
• Eat smaller meals, but eat more often.
•  
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and a hat.
•  
• Always use sunscreen. Sunburn makes the body’s job of keeping cool more difficult.

The record breaking temperatures are also calling for energy conservation.  State utility agencies are calling for consumers and businesses to reduce their electricity use by setting air conditioning thermostats to 80 degrees or higher, cooling rooms with fans and closing blinds and drapes on windows that get direct sun.