Officials offer hot weather safety tips

MOBILE, Alabama (WALA) - The heat is on and health officials warn of health risks related to high temperatures.

The dogs days of summer are approaching, with meteorologist forecasting possible record temperatures.

Even thought the thermometer says 91, factor in the heat index and it could feel more like 100.

Your chance of experiencing fatigue, exhaustion, or a heatstroke goes up as the heat index climbs.

Heat killed more people in 2009 than any other weather related event.

Health officials said if you don't have to be outside, then don't be.

They also encourage people to avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol, because they actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps.

"Make sure you check on the elderly and home bound people. If you don't have air conditioning, get to the mall or other public place to stay cool," David Mann with the Mobile County Health Department recommended.

Staying inside isn't an option for Kim Calber. She runs a hotdog stand outside of Mobile's Government Plaza.

"There's a breeze today and I drink lots of water. If we get really hot then we go in the courthouse and cool off,” said Calber.

While the heat can spell trouble for some, it spells profit for Calber.

"When you see the heat index climb to one hundred what do you think?" Fox Ten asked Calber.

"I think there is going to be a lot of coke sales and water. People stop by when they are hot," shared Calber.

Calber said it doesn't hurt that her spot is nice and shady.

If you must be out in the heat, health experts say limit your activity to morning and evening hours, rest in shady spots, and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat.