The Red Cross urges everyone to stay safe in the intense heat and humidity by following these top five safety tips:

• Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.

• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.

• If you do not have air conditioning, choose places you could go to for relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day (libraries, theaters, malls, etc.).

• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.

• Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water.

PPL recommends:

• Close blinds, drapes and shades during the day to block the sun, minimize the use of heat-generating appliances during the day.

• Use ceiling fans or box fans to help stay cool.

• Keep air conditioner filters clean and be sure vents are not blocked by furniture or other objects.

• Caulk gaps around doors and windows to prevent hot air from entering your home.

• Create air flow in a two-story home by opening a downstairs window on the shady side of the home and an upstairs window on the hot side of the house.