Summer heat waves bring unusually high temperatures that may last for days or weeks. In the summer of 1980, a severe heat wave hit the United States, and nearly 1,700 people lost their lives from heat-related illness. Each year, high temperatures put people at risk.

People suffer heat-related illness when the body's temperature control system is overloaded. The body normally cools itself by sweating. But under some conditions, sweating just isn't enough. In such cases, a person's body temperature rises rapidly. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs.

To protect your health when temperatures are extremely high, remember to keep cool and use common sense. The following tips are important.

Wear as little clothing as possible when you are at home. Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. (A big white T-shirt works well for children.) In the hot sun, a wide-brimmed hat will provide shade and keep the head cool.

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