It’s been getting pretty darn hot lately. And it’s looking like we’ll be facing a good little stretch of even more hot weather in the days and – yes, even maybe – the weeks to come.

The city has opened cooling centers now. Thanks for that. Beyond this there’s little to be done other than exercise a little common sense to minimize dangers of heat stroke. Watch your activity levels, get plenty of water, etc. Just be careful and do the right things. You’ll make it.

We love it when the winter thaws and the explosion of life in the natural world around us takes place in the springtime, and many of us love to lounge and loll in the vibrant warmth of a hot summer day. Keep in mind that moderation is the key to good health and personal safety.

A few common sense tips can help to ensure that your summertime fun will come off safely in the weeks to come:

• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle – even with the windows cracked open.
• Drink plenty of water — even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine.
• Limit outdoor activities and exposure to the sun. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
• If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours.

A Cooling Center is located at 165 Cross St., along with Somerville Public Libraries, which are closed on Sundays during the summer. Also, the Council on Aging’s Holland St. Center and Cross St. Center are good places to cool off.

Please be careful while you’re out there, and also exercise a little caution while you’re indoors. The heat is everywhere, but we can beat it.