(HealthDay News) -- As the weather heats up, illnesses ranging from heat exhaustion to heatstroke become more common.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine suggests how to help prevent heat-related medical emergencies:

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
• If working outdoors, take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors.
• When weather is particularly hot or humid, avoid heavy exercise or physical activity.
• Increase your fluid intake.
• Avoid becoming overheated, especially if you're elderly, overweight or taking a medication that affects your body's heat regulation.
• Let your car cool down before you get inside.