As the temperature rises this summer, officials with the Interior Health Authority are urging residents and visitors to be careful to avoid heat-related problems.

Dr. Paul Hasselback, medical health officer with the Interior Health Authority, says heat-related complications are a concern during the hottest part of the summer.

Normal body temperature is 37 Celsius and when the outside temperature is below that level, it is easy to keep cool.

However, on hot days when the temperature passes that degree, especially in humid climates, keeping cool becomes more difficult.

In warm weather, Hasselback says the skin helps keep the body cool through perspiration.

In the Okanagan, because of the dry climate, the body is still able to perspire and keep cool during hot weather, but in areas with high humidity, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep cool through perspiration.

Those who live in areas such as the Okanagan where hot weather is common each summer will become acclimatized to the summer temperatures while those vacationing here from cooler areas are more likely to suffer from the summer heat.

Overheating can head to serious health problems such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, Hasselback said.

At extreme levels, the body develops stroke-like conditions.

The highest risks are for the elderly whose bodies may not be able to maintain a good water balance, and infants and children who do not know they are overheated.

Heat-related problems are also a concern for those with heart conditions and those taking certain medications.

Hasselback says those with heat stroke need to be monitored by medical personnel.

He says anyone who is having complications from the heat should seek medical attention or call 911 immediately.

Hasselback says controlling heat-related complications begins by making sure to get enough to drink.

Symptoms of dehydration can include a dry tongue and a lack of perspiration.

Air conditioned environments can also help to cool down those who are at risk from heat.