Don't miss Relay For Life; Be sure to take heat precautions

The 2010 American Cancer Society Relay For Life in Aliso Viejo takes place July 17-18 at Grand Park in Aliso Viejo Town Center. The public is invited to join in the fun and help raise awareness and money for the fight against cancer.

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society's signature event, bringing together more 3.5 million people nationwide each year to celebrate the lives of those who have cancer, remember loved ones lost to the disease, and to fight back against a disease that takes too many lives every year. It offers everyone in the community an opportunity to participate in a worthy cause.

The event, which kicks off at 9 a.m. Saturday, ends on Sunday at 10 a.m. The public is invited to drop by and enjoy great bands, entertainment, food, fun, and a spirit of community. Donations will be accepted at the event and people are still invited to participate.

For more information about the Aliso Viejo Relay For Life, visit www.relayforlife.org/alisoviejoca.

High temperatures bring risk of heat-related illnesses

Several inland Orange County communities are expected to record high temperatures of over 90 degrees this week, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses for people who are more sensitive to the heat.

Prolonged exposure to excessive temperatures can cause serious conditions like heat exhaustion or heat stroke and can even be fatal, according to the Orange County Health Care Agency. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, headache, nausea or vomiting and dizziness. Warning signs of heat stroke may include an extremely high body temperature, unconsciousness, confusion, hot and dry skin (no sweating), a rapid, strong pulse, and a throbbing headache. If symptoms of heat stroke occur, call for medical assistance immediately. Move the person to a shady area and begin cooling their body with water.

Remember the following precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses:

·         Drink plenty of water; don't wait until you are thirsty.

·         Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

·         Avoid unnecessary sun exposure; wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim, when in the sun and use sunscreen.

·         Avoid unnecessary exertion if you are outside or in non-air conditioned buildings. If you are working outdoors, take frequent rest and refreshment breaks in a shaded area.

·         Never leave children, elderly people or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles.

·         Check on those who are at high risk to make sure they are staying cool - including seniors who live alone, people with heart or lung disease, and young children.

·         Stay cool indoors - if your home is not air conditioned, visit public facilities such as shopping malls and libraries to stay cool.

For more information on heat-related illnesses, visit www.cdc.gov.

The City of Aliso Viejo, which incorporated July 1, 2001, encompasses approximately 7 square miles with roughly 46,123 residents. The City's annual budget is roughly $30 million. The City supports a thriving business community with companies such as Pacific Life Insurance Co.; United Parcel Service (UPS); Clarient; Valeant Pharmaceuticals; Q-Logic; Lennar Homes; Buy.Com; Fluor Daniel; Pepsi Bottling, Inc.; Shea Homes; the Renaissance ClubSport Hotel; and Bausch and Lomb. Aliso Viejo has 23 parks, vast open space and top-notch amenities including the Aliso Viejo Ranch and the City's new Conference Center and Aquatic Center. The City of Aliso Viejo welcomes you to "Experience It All." The City is also celebrating 2010 as the Year of the Youth. For more information, visit www.cityofalisoviejo.com.