Summer is here. Well, according to my desk calendar summer officially begins June 21.

I think in Eunice it has already started! And to think that we still have to go through June, July and August.

Stay cool in the summer. Remember to always hydrate, wear cool color clothing, and exercise early in the morning or evening hours.

Make sure to check that your air conditioning unit is working properly, and change out your air filters regulary.

When you are outdoors try finding shade or better yet, jump into a pool! I don’t own a pool, but I do have two neighborhood friends who have offered their swimming pool. I think I will take their offer.

The following, courtesy of Newspaper Metro, gives great tips on staying cool in the summer.

Staying Cool in the Summer Sun:

Summer is a season many people eagerly anticipate. Kids enjoy endless summer days away from the classroom, while adults feel rejuvenated thanks to warm air and summer vacation.

But summer isn’t always a source of smiles. Summer heat can take an otherwise laid-back day and turn it into an uncomfortable nightmare. However, there are ways to stay cool and comfortable in the summer sun.

* Drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration occurs when the amount of body fluid lost exceeds the amount that is taken in. Water is typically what the body loses most. During the summer months overexposure to heat can quickly lead to dehydration. To avoid dehydrating this summer, be sure to drink plenty of fluids, and not just water. While water is essential to avoiding dehydration, drinks that contain carbohydrates and electrolytes, including Gatorade(R), can help fight dehydration as well.

* Close windows during extreme heat. Sometimes open windows can actually make a home more uncomfortable. During extreme heat, draw the blinds and shut the windows. When the weather is very warm, open windows allow hot air in.

* Be smart about exercise. When exercising, particularly during the warmer months, you’re going to sweat quite a bit. Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body, and these need to be replaced once you have finished your workout. Non-alcoholic beverages can help replace lost salt and minerals, but those on a low-salt diet should consult a physician before drinking a sports beverage after working out.

* Restrict time outdoors to cooler hours. While it’s great to get outside in the summer sun, it’s ideal to do so during certain times of the day when the heat won’t feel so overwhelming. Limit outdoor activities to morning and evening hours, when the temperatures are more mild and the sun won’t be as hot. When resting, rest in the shade to give your body a chance to recover.

* Find an air conditioned place to spend your time. If your home or apartment does not have air conditioning, find a place that does where you can spend your time. Public libraries, museums and movie theaters can be a great place to spend time and cool off. Even for those who don’t like air conditioning, certain days can be unbearable without air conditioning.

* Stay cool in your wardrobe as well. Layers help you keep warm in the winter and shedding layers help you stay cool in the summer. Wear as little as possible when spending time at home during the summer. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing can help keep your body temperature down on hot days.

Lifestyle Editor Myra Miller can be reached at myraenews@bellsouth.net.