Summer has reached its peak here in Korea, with heat wave advisories issued throughout most of the nation.<br />Scorching and extremely humid conditions have gotten to the point of unbearable... and even unsafe... with a number of elderly people already succumbing to the heat this summer.<br />Here's our Won Ji-hyun with some tips on how to keep yourself cool. <br /><br />Safety ministry figures show intense conditions brought on by heat waves have claimed a total of 547 lives in Korea... from 1991 to 2013.<br />And this summer, with hundreds of patients reportedly suffering dehydration, seizure, collapse and swelling from the hot weather, health authorities recommend the following guidelines to protect your health.<br />First and foremost, the health ministry is advising people to stay out of the sun... from the peak heat hours of 11 AM to 5 PM,... and especially on days when heat wave warnings have been issued.<br />But if you have to be outdoors, make sure to drink plenty of water, even if you're not thirsty, and take regular breaks in between periods of physical activity.<br />Ideally, a cool spot with shade or place with air conditioning is the way to go.<br />Wearing light, loose clothing can also help to keep the body temperature down.<br />Experts advise extra precaution for children and the elderly, as well as those who work outside.<br />In addition to these guidelines, make sure to stay informed... by listening to the local news for weather alerts and call 1-1-9 for any emergencies.<br />Won Ji-hyun, Arirang News.
