(HealthDayNews) -- From 1979 to 1999, extreme heat exposure led to 8,015 deaths in the United States, killing more people than hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods and earthquakes combined.

Air conditioning is your best protection against heat-related illness and death. If your home has no A/C, try to spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned public places.

Also, be sure to drink lots of water or other nonalcoholic fluids; wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing; and reduce strenuous activities or do them during cooler parts of the day.



-- Anne Thompson

Last Updated: Jul-28-2004