SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash. --- The National Weather Service has announced an excessive heat watch for this Thursday and Friday, with temperatures that will rise into the low- to mid-90s. When outside temperatures are very high, the danger for heat-related illnesses rises. Older adults, young children, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases are at particularly high risk.
 
Take these tips with a cool beverage:
 
Stay cool:
 Spend more time in air conditioned places. If you don't have air conditioning, consider visiting a mall, movie theater or other cool public places.
 Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun.
 Dress in lightweight clothing.
 Check up on your elderly neighbors and relatives and encourage them to take these precautions, too.
 Drink liquids: Drink plenty of water. Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol and large amounts of sugar because they can actually dehydrate your body.
 Have a beverage with you as much as possible, and sip or drink frequently. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink.
 
If you go outside:
 Limit the time you're in direct sunlight.
 Do not leave infants, children, people with mobility challenges and pets in a parked car, even with the window rolled down.
 Avoid or reduce doing activities that are tiring, or take a lot of energy.
 Do outdoor activities in the cooler morning and evening hours.
 Avoid sunburn. Use a sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (sun protection factor) rating.