CHICOPEE, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Extreme heat could pose a real risk to families and pets across our area and you need a plan before you head out the door.

The heat is already being felt at Szot Park in Chicopee and for some, that means making sure their four-legged friends can handle it.

Springfield resident Natalie Espino says her dog Yuki is already feeling the sting, but she has a plan to keep her comfortable.

“I have to do grooming once every month or every two months, depending on the weather ... to make it more comfortable,” she said. “But it’s hard, you know, for dogs. It’s very difficult for dogs.”

Espino is also keeping the ceiling fans and air conditioner running at home to keep the air moving.

She is not the only one taking this seriously. Kathy Zimmerman from East Longmeadow is taking extra precautions during her daily walks and has plans to leave the area entirely to find some relief.

“Well, we’re staying hydrated,” she said. “We’re wearing long sleeves to protect our skins and a little bit of sunscreen and basically trying to stay to shady areas when we’re walking.”

Zimmerman says she is heading to the cape later this week to get near the water where it’s cooler.

If you’re going to be outside during this extreme heat, with your family or your pets, drink plenty of water and stick to the shade during the hottest parts of the day.

The bottom line is simple: if you do not have to be outside during the hottest part of the day, stay in.

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