It’s is summertime in Mississippi and if you’ve lived here long enough, you knew what to expect from the oppressive heat. That doesn’t make it any easier to deal with, however.

This curent heat wave —the real first of the summer —is expected to last through the weekend. It means it is time to take the heat serious and take the necessary precautions.

“This can be a health and safety issue,” Warren County Emergency Management Director John Elfer said after the National Weather Service in Jackson issued a heat advisory for a good portion of central Mississippi, including Warren County.

“We encourage everyone working outside to take frequent breaks and drink plenty of non-alcoholic and non-caffeinated beverages.”

This is the weekend before Independence Day and many people will be celebrating since the Fourth of July falls on a Wednesday this year. Be sure that if you are outdoors enjoying the weekend with family and friends to drink plenty of water and to use sunscreen to protect your skin from the suns harmful rays.

The extreme heat can also lead to heat-related health problems, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

And while taking care of yourself, be sure to check on your neighbors and the elderly, as well as outdoor pets and animals.

It’s going to be a hot summer, so be careful.