BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — As of today, through Thursday, a heat warning is in effect for the San Joaquin Valley, with temperatures expected to reach 101 to 107 degrees.

Elevated temperatures can gravely affect the most vulnerable residents such as children, the elderly, those with underlying ailments and pregnant women

Kern County Public Health provides the following tips:

• Drink water even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcohol.
• Avoid outdoor physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day. Reduce exposure to the sun from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Wear a hat to cover the face and neck and loose-fitting clothing to keep cool and to protect your skin from the sun.
• Regularly check on any elderly relatives or friends who live alone.
• To prevent overheating, use cool compresses, misting, showers and baths.
• Never leave infants, children, elderly or pets in a parked car.
• Apply sunscreen (at least SPF 15) 15 minutes before venturing outdoors and re-apply at least every two hours.