High temperatures and humidity can be a challenging combination bringing with them the threat of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

For do-it-yourself movers and professional truck drivers alike, experts recommend taking a few precautions to help beat the summer heat.

We have assembled some tips to add to your summer travel pre-trip checklist.

One of the first steps is to recognize and prepare for extreme heat.

Extreme Heat

Periods of extreme heat – two or more days of high humidity and temperatures greater than 90 – can occur anywhere, and these conditions pose an increased threat to the very young, elderly and those with physical challenges.

If a heat emergency is declared in your area, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends taking these steps:

Avoid strenuous activity

Wear light clothing

Drink plenty of fluids

Never leave people or pets in a closed vehicle

When outside, locate shady areas and wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.

Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses

It is important to pay attention to any changes in your physical condition to identify early warning signs of heat-related illnesses.

Heat Cramps

Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs.

Actions: Go to a cooler location. Remove excess clothing. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if cramps last more than an hour.

Heat Exhaustion

Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and fainting.

Actions: Go to an air-conditioned place and lie down. Loosen or remove clothing. Take a cool bath. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.

Heat Stroke

Signs: Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees) indicated by an oral thermometer; red, hot and dry skin with no sweat; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness; confusion; and unconsciousness.

Actions: Call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives.

Level Up Your Hydration Routine

Hydration is important to help the body keep cool. We have some creative ways to increase your water intake.

Eat your water. Certain fruits and vegetables are water-rich.

Bored with plain water? Add fruits like lemons and limes to flavor your water.

Miss the fizz of soda? Try sparkling water.

Schedule your water intake around the natural breaks in your day.

Bring Your Own Bottle for quick fill-ups at water fountains or truck stops instead of purchasing bottled water.

Freeze water bottles to use as a way to cool off during the intense heat of the day, and then drink it as the ice melts.

Planning a summer move? It’s not too late.

Penske Truck Rental offers free unlimited miles on all one-way truck rentals, discounts for AAA members, college students and members of the military as well as packing supplies and 24/7 roadside assistance. Ready to make a reservation? Visit the Penske Truck Rental website for more information.

By "Move Ahead" Staff