DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have five loop beaded continuous roll shades with brackets, inside or outside mount, 4 feet, 10 inches wide and 72 inches long, made of off-white basket weave fiberglass to give away for free. They would be great in a sun room. Please call 522-2479. — Ann, Auburn

ANSWER: Thank you for being so generous. I’m sure someone can use these. Let us know what happens.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding the June 25 Sun Spots, the CDC web site  (https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/environmental-health/heat/keepcool.html) has good tips for staying safe in hot weather. — No name, no town

ANSWER: Yes, they do. I know I’m going to sound like your mother here, but these are some of the suggestions I found on the site:

Go to an air-conditioned place such as a store, public library, movie theater, restaurant or cooling center. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.

Keep windows and shades closed during the day, especially on the sunny side of your home. Open them up at night to let cooler air in.

Take a cool shower or bath. Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is hotter than the mid-90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.

Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Stay out of the sun as much as possible. Wear sunscreen, a ventilated hat (a hat made of straw or mesh), and sunglasses when outside, even if it’s cloudy.

Never leave anyone, especially children, pets, or those with special needs in a parked car, even for a few minutes. Temperatures in the car can become dangerous very quickly.

Drink more fluids even if you are not very active. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks since these can dry your body out. If you are on fluid restrictions or taking water pills or diuretics, ask your doctor how much fluid you should drink.

Take regular breaks from any physical activity — at least every hour.

Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day (between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.).

If you absolutely must be outside, try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours unless there is an air quality advisory in your area that recommends limiting activity during these times.

If you must exercise or are exerting yourself, drink two to four glasses of cool, nonalcoholic fluids each hour. A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat. If you are on a low-salt diet, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage.

Rest often in shady areas — at least every hour.

Put on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. The most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on the label. Take good care of yourselves, everyone!

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to [email protected].