KAIT-Jonesboro, AR-News, weather, sports, classifieds-Heat Dangers in Region 8

Heat Dangers in Region 8

PARAGOULD, AR (KAIT) - -If you stepped outside today, the heat felt like you had stepped into a sauna.

"It does feel like the hottest day we've had some other hot days but we've always been blessed with a breeze on those days and it's not too much of a breeze today," said Wade Murray.

Experts say today marks the hottest day of year so far and for many who work outdoors in the blistering temperatures, the heat can be dangerous.

"It is pretty common when we have weather like this. We have employees that get too hot and we encourage them to take more frequent breaks. When they do get too hot we want them to get to the shade," said Joe Barnett with the Arkansas Highway Department.

Here are a few tips to beat the heat:  

• Dress for the warm weather by wearing light colored clothing 
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Slow down and avoid any strenuous activity
• If you must do heavy work outside, do it during the coolest part of the day

We are just two weeks away from August, one of the hottest months of the year, and there will be more hot days in the near future.