With temperatures expected to climb near triple digits on Wednesday, the Wilmington Fire Department asks residents to be prepared and make their health the top priority.

“People really have to take care of themselves and watch out,” said Deputy Chief John Brown. “The heat tends to sneak up on people when they think they’re prepared, but in reality they may not be.”

Brown asked residents to be sure to consistently drink water throughout the day if it’s necessary to be out in the sun.

According to the National Weather Service, a heat advisory is in effect and residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, stay in air conditioned areas when possible, stay out of the sun and check on relatives and neighbors.

“The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible,” a National Weather Service statement said. “Avoid prolonged work in the sun or in poorly ventilated area.” 

Brown said when temperatures reach as high as they’re likely to on Wednesday, the Fire Department tends to see a spike in calls for residents suffering from heat stroke, dehydration and other related conditions.

According to the Deputy Chief, it can be easy to mistake needing a break from the sun for having a bigger problem. As a result, Brown’s biggest piece of advice is to err on the side of caution to prevent serious consequences.

“If you feel like you’re too hot, you are,” said Brown. “Once you feel different than you normally do, that’s your first warning sign. People who ignore the warning are the ones who tend to run into problems.”

While yardwork and other outdoor chores may be on the top of your list to do in the upcoming days, Brown suggests thinking twice before spending that extra bit of energy to finish your tasks.

“Avoid the extra work. It can wait. It’ll be there tomorrow,” said Brown. “There’s no sense in pushing yourself too far and getting yourself hurt.”