Hot, Hot, Hot: Three Days of Heat on the Way to New England

Temperatures could hit triple digits Wednesday in Wakefield, and it's expected to stay hot through the end of the week, according to the National Weather Service.

The mercury is expected to flirt with 100 degrees Wednesday and Thursday, while highs Friday are expected to push 90, according to the weather service. It issued the following hazardous weather advisory early Tuesday morning:

"There is a high probability of hot and humid conditions Wednesday and Thursday. Maximum heat indices should reach around 100 degrees both days ... Especially across the lower Connecticut River valley ... Interior eastern Massachusetts as well as the urban areas of Boston and Providence. Heat advisories may be needed in portions of the region."

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency gives these tips for staying safe in the heat:

• Slow down, avoid strenuous activity.  Do not try to do too much on a hot day.

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect heat and sunlight and help maintain normal body temperature. Protect your face with a wide-brimmed hat.

• Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you do not feel thirsty. Attempt to stay hydrated.

• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages. They can actually dehydrate your body.

• Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals. Avoid high protein foods that increase metabolic heat.

• Stay indoors as much as possible.

• If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Electric fans do not cool the air, but they do help evaporate perspiration, which cools your body.

• Go to a place where you can get relief from the heat, such as air conditioned schools, libraries, theaters and other community facilities that may offer refuge during the warmest times of the day.

• Check with your community for information about possible local ‘cooling centers.'

• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.

• Avoid too much sunshine. Sunburn slows the skin’s ability to cool itself.  If you are outside, use sunscreen lotion with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating.

• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.

• Do not leave pets outside for extended periods. Make sure that they have plenty of drinking water.

• Check on family, friends and neighbors.