Summer has reached its peak here in Korea, with heat wave advisories issued throughout most of the nation.
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.
Here's our Won Ji-hyun with some tips on how to keep yourself cool.
Safety ministry figures show intense conditions brought on by heat waves have claimed a total of 547 lives in Korea... from 1991 to 2013.
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.
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.
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.
Ideally, a cool spot with shade or place with air conditioning is the way to go.
Wearing light, loose clothing can also help to keep the body temperature down.
Experts advise extra precaution for children and the elderly, as well as those who work outside.
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.
Won Ji-hyun, Arirang News.
