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Hot & Humid Forecast: Public Urged To Take Precautions

BALTIMORE (WJZ) --Heat and humidity sent more than a dozen people to emergency rooms over the weekend. With more hot days in the forecast, everyone is urged to take precautions.

Monique Griego has more on just how dangerous these temperatures can be.

Doctors say it's all about the basics. You have to stay hydrated. If you feel like your body is overheating, take a break or find a place to cool off. Doctors say it can be really easy for this heat to sneak up on you.

As Baltimore's highs hang around 90 degrees, being out in the sun can be unbearable.

"It's sticky. Sometimes can be uncomfortable," said one woman.

"I don't go outside. Yeah, I just can't stand the heat," said Yvonne Cortez.

Cortez did venture outside, thanks to afternoon cloud cover. It made a trip to the Inner Harbor a little more tolerable for parents looking for ways to cool off their kids. Still, health leaders warn this summer's heat can hit you when you least expect it.

"I thought, `Can I do this? Am I able to do it?' It's just too much. It's too hot," said Cortez.

Doctors say the most important thing is to stay hydrated. While ice cream may taste good, water is best.

"Alcohol dehydrates you. Sodas dehydrate you," said Dr. Michael Zimring.

Skyrocketing temperatures and high humidity can easily lead to heat stroke. ERs are already seeing an increase in cases.

Symptoms include headaches, abdominal pain, headaches, nausea, feeling very tired or getting confused and disoriented.

But if being in the sun is something you live to do---or can't afford not to do---then just take a break and find some way to chill out.

Doctors say the most severe signs of heat stroke are confusion or passing out. If you feel either of those symptoms, head to the hospital.

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