TOPEKA — With weather forecasts of continued heat and humidity, state health officials are urging Kansans to check in on friends and neighbors who don't have air conditioning.

“If you know someone who may be at risk for heat stress, take a few minutes to check on them periodically throughout the day and night,” said Shawn Sullivan, secretary of the Kansas Department on Aging. “If you have a friend, relative or neighbor who doesn’t have air-conditioning, now would be a good time to talk with them about getting into a cooler place.”

KDoa and officials for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment said local "cooling centers" have been established across the state as refuges for those who need relief from the heat.

A list of local emeregency preparedness officials in each county can be found here. The local officials can provide detailed information about each cooling center's location in their county, state officials said.

KDHE and KDOA also offer the following heat safety tips:

· Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible.

· When outside, stay in the shade.

· If your home is not air conditioned, spend at least two hours daily at an air conditioned mall, library, senior center or other public place.

· When outdoors, wear sunscreen and loose-fitting, light colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.

· Drink water, even if you are not thirsty. Limit alcohol and sugary drinks which speed dehydration.

· Never leave children or pets alone in the car.

· Avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day.

· Take a cool shower or bath.