The Missouri State Parks team wants to remind park visitors about the importance of practicing safety measures when visiting a state park or historic site.

Park officials say when visiting a Missouri state park or historic site remember to wear appropriate clothing, stay hydrated, follow any guidelines posted throughout the park, know your severe weather plan, only swim in designated areas and leave wildlife be.

Safety tips regarding water-related activities include:
· Only swim in designated areas and follow signage.
· Familiarize yourself with the area first before entering the water.
· Watch for underwater obstacles (stumps, logs, etc.).
· Never swim, wade or access any water feature alone.
· Always wear a personal flotation device.
· Never leave children unsupervised near the water.
· Learn to swim and know your swimming limits.
· Never drink alcohol and swim.

According to a statement, knowing the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke, can help you stay safe during extreme heat. Warning signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness and weakness, dizziness or fainting, headache, nausea or vomiting.

To help prevent heat-related illness, follow these safety tips:
· Visit the park or historic site during the coolest time of the day.
· Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
· Wear sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful rays. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself and causes a loss of body fluids.
· Increase your fluid intake – regardless of activity level. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty.
· Avoid drinks containing caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar because they can cause you to lose more fluid. Avoid very cold beverages; they can cause stomach cramps.
· Ask your doctor whether medications you take affect your body’s response to heat.

For more safety tips regarding visits to Missouri State Parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com.