Summer has officially arrived, and Indiana American Water encourages anyone taking part in outdoor activities to stay adequately hydrated.
The investor-owned utility also stresses the importance of making sure any outdoor cats and dogs are properly hydrated as well. Like humans, animals can suffer from heat-related illnesses and are more prone to heat-related exhaustion because they do not perspire like their owners.
Bring plenty of cool water along for yourself and your pets while you are outside. Also, include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your daily diet, as they help to supplement normal water intake.
Outdoor athletes should follow their workouts with water and sports drinks to help replace water lost through exercise.
Also be aware of the signs of dehydration. They include fatigue, loss of appetite, flushed skin, heat intolerance, light-headedness, dark-colored urine and a dry cough.