The last couple of days in Alabama, the temperature outside has reached the 90s and heat indexes having gotten close to triple digits.

The National Weather Service in Birmingham estimated heat indexes for this area at above 100 degrees. Temperatures will be in the 90s most of the next week as well, making it a potentially dangerous for anyone who has to work outside most of the day.

The weather service is asking that people use caution by limiting outdoor activity as much as possible. The key — if possible — is to avoid the hottest parts of the day, which usually occur in the early afternoon.

Anyone that is working outside should drink plenty of water, wear light clothing and apply sunscreen. This is a really bad time of the year to be without working air conditioning in your home or work, but if that’s the case find a way to cool down.

You can go to the mall, movie theatre or library during the hottest portions of the day.

Heat usually affects the young, elderly, sick and overweight the most. Make sure to check on anyone who might fall victim to the heat.

Of course, the heat doesn’t just affect people. Make sure animals have a place to rest in the shade and can get to a water dish.

We aren’t exactly breaking news when we say that it’s hot in Alabama during the summer, but these heat waves typically come and go. The key is to use caution when the temperatures get this hot.

It’s better to be on the safe side than to have a medical emergency. Be safe out there.