Warning signs of heat exhaustion, dehydration

MALIBU, Calif. (KABC) -- Extreme heat is uncomfortable, but it can also be dangerous, even life-threatening. Experts are warning people to stay indoors and stay hydrated as temperatures spike throughout the Southland.

Tri Dao, a doctor at Facey Medical Group, warned people to pay attention to the symptoms of dehydration.

"Muscle cramps, headaches, dizziness - those are the warning signs you need to be worried about," Dao said.

Dry mouth, a lack of perspiration and no longer needing to use the restroom are other signs of dehydration, Dao said.

Two young hikers part of a Salvation Army hiking expedition were stranded Friday morning at Malibu Creek State Park. A 12-year-old girl suffered from heat exhaustion and had to be airlifted to the UCLA Medical Center. Her friend had an ankle injury.

The rescue is just another example of how high temperatures can put people in danger. The young and elderly are most vulnerable to dehydration.

Experts suggest wearing a hat and light clothing, putting on sunscreen and, most importantly, drinking lots of water.