First Heat Advisory of 2012 Hits Wednesday

Summer arrives with full force Wednesday as the first superheated day hits the area. Because high temperatures and dew points will combine making it feel like over 100 degrees outside, a heat advisory will be in effect from 12 p.m. Wednesday until 8 p.m. Thursday.

We don't want to be writing about our neighbors getting heat stroke, so watch yourself! Drink an extra glass or two of water over the course of the day, reapply sunscreen every hour, and opt for the sundress or light khakis over the skinny jeans and dark slacks.

Here are a few ways to beat the heat in the neighborhood:

Park Yourself at a Park: You'll have to watch the pool from a distance until Saturday when but there's still plenty to do at the park! Take in an early softball or baseball game, bring the kids to the playground, or take a leisurely stroll through the grounds of or the nearby .

I Scream, You Scream: The easiest and arguably most delicious way to cool down is with a scoop of ice cream. Whether you're Team or , a frozen yogurt aficionado, we're surrounded with places for frozen treats.

Ice Cold Beverages: Although hot wings are their specialty, you might want to opt for a beer at or instead. Order yourself a pint and a burger and watch a game or jam to the jukebox.

If all else fails, make your own! Ask a helpful store owner at or for the essentials to make your favorite frozen beverage at home.

Reading is Cool: Where can you go for free books, movies, air conditioning, WiFi, and absolute silence? The library, of course! Book it to the and get lost in literature.

Heat-Proof Your Home: Time to end the procrastination and finally replace the air conditioner that died during last summer's endless heat wave. Head to and pick up a new, energy efficient A/C unit or stop by and pick up a hammock and umbrella for lounging around in the backyard. Avoid doing any strenuous assembly in the midday hours, as heat stroke will hit easier in these hours.

Shop So You Don't Drop: Whether you're dropping major cash or just window shopping, head to the stores for refreshing air conditioning. Try the Plainview Centre or Woodbury Common and wind your way up and down the shops until you hit a restaurant where you can stop and refuel before round two. Remember to order a water!