CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Governor Henry McMaster has officially declared this week as “South Carolina Heat Safety Week” as temperatures are expected to increase with the approaching summer.

Officials have shared tips on how to stay safe in the heat.

It’s important for individuals to stay hydrated, refrain from engaging in strenuous activities during peak heat hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and never leave children or pets in vehicles, even for a brief moment.

The Climate Prediction Center’s seasonal forecast, released in April, predicts that nearly all states will experience above-average temperatures over the next few months.

While nearly the entire U.S. is expected to see warm weather, the East Coast expects more rain than average over the next three months, which could help the drought conditions.

You can find more heat safety tips by clicking here.