DEADLY heatwave settles over U.S., here's what you need to know to stay safe

Heat is number 1 weather-related killer.

The worst heatwave in years is here and it will scorch the entire country from Central California to the Great Lakes, to New England. The heat will be dangerous and persistent.

LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) - Ask people what the most deadly weather phenomenon is and many will say hurricanes or tornadoes. They are wrong. Heatwaves kill hundreds of people each year.

Heat is a stealthy killer. Unsuspecting people exert themselves on hot days. They don't turn on their air conditioning or find a cool place to be. They don't take enough water. Suddenly, they feel weak and before long they are suffering from a heat stroke or worse.

Heat is also deadly to pets, particularly dogs, which are left outdoors.

Through the weekend, and into next week, many places across the U.S. will see temperatures at or near 100 degrees. With humidity, the conditions will be brutal.

Heat waves are common in the American southwest, so people in that region know how to cope. But people across the midwest, and particularly in cooler regions of the country may not appreciate the danger. The National Weather Service is warning the current heatwave may be the worst in years. It will be hotter and last longer than usual. This will not simply be one or two hot days, but several.

Workers are warned to drink plenty of water. Remain in the shade and take breaks as much as possible.

People who are indoors should turn on their air conditioning, or find a place they can go that has working air conditioning. This is especially important for people who are elderly or sick.

At no time should children or pets be left in a car, even if the engine and air are running.

Outdoor activity should be limited from midday though the early evening, the hottest time of day.

Anyone who must do outdoor activity should also wear sunscreen.

People should look for warning signs of heat exhaustion. If you feel fatigued, or sweat profusely, these are serious warning signs of heat exhaustion. If you stop sweating or urinating, you may be in danger of heat stroke.

Please tend to pets, especially dogs, which cannot sweat to cool off. Outdoor pets should be brought inside. They should have shade and plenty of fresh water while outside.

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