As we are dealing with one of the hotter days so far this summer, we know there's more on the way before we hit fall. So, how do you make the most of the season, and stay safe in these near 90-degree temperatures?

Erie News Now's Mark Soliday got some expert advice to make sure you and your family don't run into any heat-related health issues.

It's easy to tell what the air temperature is with things like a thermometer, or with the First Warning Weather App., but those surface temperatures at places like the Peninsula or the playground can also present a burn risk, especially for kids.

The splash pad at Erie's Bayview Park helps keep Jen Lindenberger's kids cool on a scorcher of a day, but not far away, surface temperatures on things like the slides and swing-sets can soar.
Our heat gun found the blacktop walkway art around 120-degrees; the rubber swings were even hotter.

Health experts say a few simple steps can help prevent burns.


"Look for the equipment that's in the shade. If if there is any. Keeping some clothing between your your skin and that surface is is important. And you know, wearing your shoes because you never. You never know when you're going to step from one surface onto another and, and, uh, you know, the temperature can be much hotter than you expect," Dr. Edward Ellis, at AHN St. Vincent says.


The sand at Presque Isle State Park can get even hotter, pushing 130-degrees.


Whether it's the heat's overall impact on your body, or that burn risk, doctors and moms say awareness and preparation can be key.

Dr. Ellis also says that everyone's a little different as far as the heat's impact goes.
He stresses not only that self-awareness, but how others around you, especially vulnerable groups like kids and senior citizens.