THE HEAT WILL BE ON THIS HOLIDAY WEEKEND – NORTHWEST GEORGIA HEALTH DIRECTOR ENCOURAGES THE PUBLIC TO STAY HYDRATED AND BE SAFE

Backyard barbecues, fireworks, and all sorts of other outdoor activities are on tap for this Independence Day weekend, as is sweltering Summer heat.

Dr. Gary Voccio, the Health Director for the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Northwest Health District, urges locals to stay cool, stay hydrated, and keep an eye on your kids and pets this holiday weekend.

Those who will be outdoors are exhorted by Dr. Voccio to drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary beverages. If you plan to reach for a sports drink, be sure that it does not contain excess sugar.

A good way to beat the heat is to stay indoors whenever possible. If you do go outside, wear lose-fitting, lightweight clothing,

Dr. Voccio reminds the public to never leave kids or pets in hot cars – that is just dangerous.

High temperatures will be in the upper 90s to 100 with heat index values as high as 110 over the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.