‘It’s hot!’ Drink plenty of fluids, take breaks during extreme heat, experts warn

RICHMOND, Va. -- As a large expanse of heat that gripped the United States moves over Virginia, Virginia's worst heat index values were more consistent across northern Virginia, where a heat advisory was in effect. This heat advisory has expanded to include southeastern Virginia for Sunday, and will likely encompass more of the Commonwealth on Monday.

The near triple digit temps are forcing some to take refuge at a city cooling station while Deanglao McClure has other ways to beat the heat.

Couple at Virginia Beach applies sunscreen.

"Ice in the cup. Stay hydrated. Please stay hydrated. If you don't need to come out here, stay in the house,” McClure said.

Health officials offered the following advice if you have to be out in the sun.

"In hot weather like this, you want to take it easy It's not business as usual, you want to slow down. Take it easy,” said George Jones with Richmond City Health District.

Jones pointed out working outdoors can be a challenge, too.

"If you work outside, make sure you take plenty of breaks, get in the shade as much as you can. Even better, if you can into air-conditioning for a little while to cool your body down,” Jones said. "Drink plenty of [non-alcoholic] fluids. Water is best.”

That is key because you don't want to become dehydrated or even suffer from heat stroke.

And while sunbathing, don't forget the sunscreen to protect your skin.

And health experts suggest wearing light, loose clothing and checking on your elderly neighbors to make sure they have air-conditioning. And never leave your kids or your pets inside a hot car.