It’s the third day of the extreme heat, and state Department of Health and Mental Hygiene officials are warning everyone to take precautions.

There is a heat advisory today from noon to 8 p.m. in Maryland’s capital region, as well as the central and southern regions.

“Each consecutive day of severe heat increases the health risks for our most vulnerable Marylanders, especially seniors, children and anyone with serious underlying health conditions,” said Frances Phillips, the state health department’s deputy secretary for public health services, in a statement. “We urge everyone to take precautions for their families, pets and any neighbors who might be at higher risk because of their health or home conditions.”

State officials said 51 people went to emergency rooms in Maryland because of dehydrations but there have been no confirmed heat-related deaths so far this season. Last summer, there were 32 deaths. In 2009, there were 6, in 2008 there were 17 and in 2007 there were 21.

Local health departments, including Baltimore’s, have opened cooling centers. To find one, click here.

Officials say to keep a closer eye on the vulnerable, including infants and young children, young athletes, seniors and those with health conditions. They also recommend asking your doctor if you need to take extra care in hot weather if you are on prescription medication.

For everyone else, stay inside as much as possible, on lower floors if possible. If you go out, try and aim before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. Wear light colored and loose fitting clothes, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks if you are outside. Don’t leave the kids or pets in the car.

Baltimore Sun file photo/Jed Kirschbaum