The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for counties along and south of I-70 in the NEWS9 viewing area.

To provide some relief, officials with the Brooke County EMA tell NEWS9 they have opened up two cooling shelters for today. One will be located in the "green room" on the lower level of the courthouse. The other is located at the Bethany Volunteer Fire Department.

A heat advisory means a period of high temperatures is expected. The combination of high temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible. The heat index may reach up to 102 degrees in some areas.

The weather service said people who are susceptible to heat-related illnesses should limit outdoor activities. People should drink plenty of fluids; wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothes; stay in air-conditioned areas; stay out of the sun; and check in on relatives and neighbors.

For those who work outside or spend time outdoors, the Weather Service advises possibly rescheduling strenuous activities to the early morning or evening.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. If you suspect heat exhaustion or heat stroke, call 911.

For people with air conditioners, Dave Geer with Air Excellence said the best range is 75-78 degrees. Not only will that limit how hard your unit works, but Geer said it will limit how much shock your body feels when stepping back outside.

Geer also recommends keeping plants and weeds more than 2 feet away from the unit to ensure air flow is sufficient. People should also keep the exterior unit in the shade and clean the interior air filter about every month.

He said doing these things will help save about 15-20 percent of energy consumption, in turn saving you more money. Geer also said to leave all of the mechanical work and cleaning up to the professionals and have a professional tune-up every year.

In addition to the severe weather alerts, a burn ban is in effect in Liverpool Township, Columbiana County, until further notice.

The ban means residents should not burn trash, make bonfires or start fires of any sort. The ban was put in place by the chief of the Liverpool Township Fire Department.

Stay with NEWS9, WTOV9.com and WTOV9.com Mobile for continuing coverage.