AUGUSTA, Ga. () – With hot temperatures in the forecast over the next few days, you need to use caution if you’re going outside.

Local doctors and city leaders say it’s important to keep a few things in mind as you’re heading outside.

“We’re experiencing some hot summers, and I think this is probably going to be one of the hottest summers on record according to the research,” said District 1 Commissioner Jordan Johnson.

City leaders say the heat can make it tough on city workers—but it’s also one of the hardest times of the year for the homeless population.

That’s why they’re having ongoing conversations about bringing day centers to the Garden City. 

“There’s no place for the homeless to go during the day to get out of the elements, job skills training, resources—there’s nowhere for them to go. I think although there are other programs happening in our community centers, anyone. Whether you’re homeless, or at home without A/C, you should be able to come into our community centers just to cool off,” Johnson said.

Talks have been going on for the last few years, but Johnson says action needs to be taken to help the now more than 1,000 Augustans facing homelessness.

“I know the SPLOST is coming up soon, so that may be a conversation the city needs to have with SPLOST recommendations,” said Johnson. “But, to have over 1,000 people in our community experiencing homelessness—with nowhere to go to get those resources during the daytime—I think we’re moving in the wrong direction if we want to close those gaps. The homeless task force is doing a fantastic job, but the city also has to step in the fight.”

Doctors at Wellstar MCG Health are also sharing tips to stay cool.

“If you’re going to be outside doing any sort of athletic activity or yard activity, take a break, go in the shade, drink lots of water. If you start noticing that you’re feeling cramps, feeling light-headed, if anyone says that you’re acting a little funny—get out of the heat,” said Dr. Brandon Bentley.

The sunlight does provide Vitamin D, but doctors also want you to protect your skin by wearing sunscreen throughout the summer. 

“If they go into a pool or a lake, or even if they visit the ocean—if you’re coming out of the water, make sure you put that sunscreen back on. The water is going to take it right back off—even the water-resistant sunscreens. So, reapply every two hours, make sure you put it on 15 minutes beforehand, and you’re usually in decent shape to protect yourself from the sun,” Bentley said.

Bentley is also encouraging you to be aware of your surroundings and other people as you step outside.

“You, yourself might be used to this type of heat. Maybe you’ve been playing outside for an hour or two all spring, so this is just a little hotter than normal,” said Bentley. “But the guys you may bring with you to the basketball court might not be ready. If they haven’t been outside as much, you need to recognize they need more frequent breaks and an extra second to drink more water.”

He’s also urging those under the age of 15 and over the age of 65 to especially heed these warnings—as those age groups are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses.

While the city is continuing to have discussions about bringing day centers to Augusta, there are several community centers around the county that are serving as cooling shelters.

To learn more about locations in Richmond County serving as cooling shelters, click here.