(St. George, UT) - The National Weather Service has issued a high heat advisory for Southwestern Utah for a period from 2:00pm this afternoon until 9:00pm Saturday, July 17th. Temperatures are expected to approach or exceed 110 degrees both Friday and Saturday afternoons. High heat advisories are issued when temperatures reach a range which can cause heat related stress or illness to humans and animals.

It is recommended that during high heat advisories the following precautions be taken:

• Dress light, eat light. Wear light colored, light weight clothing, and eat light meals. Heavy foods can increase metabolism and fluid loss.

• If possible stay out of the sun particularly during the hottest parts of the day. If you have to be in the sun, slow down and take regular rest periods in a shady or cool environment.

• Wear sunscreen to protect skin from the sun's harmful rays. Sunburn affects your body's ability to cool itself and causes a loss of body fluids.

• Increase your fluid intake—regardless of your activity level. Don't wait until you feel thirsty to drink fluids. Ensure infants and children drink adequate amounts of liquids.

• Avoid drinks containing caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar because they may actually cause you to lose more fluid.

• If possible stay inside in an air conditioned or cooled environment.

• Don’t leave children, adults, or animals in parked vehicles. Temperatures in parked vehicles can rise quickly. Leaving a window open slightly does not significantly impact the vehicle’s heating rate.

• Check on your neighbors and family members. High heat can impact the elderly, ill, and small children more significantly.

• Provide shade and water for your animals. Animals can be especially vulnerable during high heat periods.

Taking a few simple precautions can help keep you, your loved ones, and neighbors safe. For additional information on keeping cool and heat related illness go to Heat Precautions