Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can rear their ugly head during the sweltering dog days of summer. To avoid getting overheated, experts recommend wearing lightweight loose-fitting clothing, seeking shade, drinking plenty of fluids and taking it easy during hot or humid weather.

If you or a loved one notice muscle cramps, dizziness, vomiting or confusion, take the heat off by following these tips:

• Immediately call 911 if there's a fever of 102 degrees or higher, rapid breathing and heart rate, or if signs of shock are apparent.
• Lie down in a cool place and elevate feet 12 inches to improve circulation and internal temperature regulation.
• Apply cold compresses to the neck, groin and armpits, and use a fan to help lower body temperature.
• Drink a half cup of a fluid like Gatorade every 15 minutes. To help replace lost salt in the body, you can also add a teaspoon of salt to a quart of water. Don't administer liquids with alcohol or caffeine as they'll hinder the body's ability to control its temperature.
• Monitor your temperature until it reaches a norm of 98.6 degrees.