At the cusp of summer, Valley air officials remind residents to cool off carefully

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Summertime may be synonymous with triple digit temperatures, but after a week of fairly mild conditions, this warm up could be dangerous.

"It's something that you definitely don't want to take lightly," Cassandra Melching with the Valley Air District said. "You do want to take all the steps necessary to protect your health."

The forecast, calling for extreme heat the next several days, has proved concerning for the Central Valley Air District as high temperatures and direct sunlight helps generate ozone.

Those most at risk of heat-related illness are the elderly, children and those with heart or respiratory problems.

"People can get heat exhaustion, asthma attacks can come on very quick and also heart attacks and other chronic conditions could get worse," Dr. A.M. Aminian said.

Aminian of the Allergy Institute says it's important to avoid peak air pollution times starting early afternoon to 6 p.m.

"Anytime the heat is up, you get more air pollution," he said. "You get more smog in the Valley with the direct sunlight that we have."

"If they need to run errands do it all at once, try to carpool," Melching said. "If at all possible avoid using drive-thrus park the car and actually go in."

For those who want to cool down during peak hours in the pool, remember you're still breathing the same air. It's important to stay hydrated with water and avoid alcohol or caffeinated beverages.

"Remember that alcohol and caffeine are diuretics, so they make you dehydrated if that's the only thing you're depending on," Aminian said.

As for indoor allergens and pollution, make sure your air ducts are clean and filters frequently changed. If you're ever not sure about those ozone levels valley air is here to help.

They have an app where you can get the real-time air advisory network where you can monitor all of them. Their website also offers 24-hour air quality information.