The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Watch for Washington state that goes into effect Saturday afternoon and ends Monday.

People should take precautions to stay cool, both outdoors and at home, the NWS says, adding heat-related illnesses and deaths are preventable. Kitsap County has not announced yet if it is planning to open any cool-weather shelters. Dial 2-1-1 to see if one is open near you.

The NWS is forecasting temperatures in the high 80s and low 90s for much of Western Washington. Since many Washingtonians do not have air conditioning, cooling off can be a challenge, particularly for people with health conditions, the elderly and infants.

NWS recommendations include:

• Keep your home cool by closing windows and shades. Use your stove and oven less.
• Assist those who are vulnerable or at higher risk, neighbors who are elderly, ill, or may need help.
• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids.
• Make sure pets have protection from heat and walk on grass instead of asphalt. Never leave people or pets in a parked vehicle.
• Take breaks when working outdoors. Wear hats, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and wear sunscreen.
• Fans might provide comfort, but they won’t prevent heat-related illness.
• If you notice symptoms of heat illness (dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps), act immediately. Move to a cooler location and seek medical attention if you do not feel better.
• Rivers, lakes and oceans are cold, and jumping into them can result in shock, arrythmias and drowning. Ease into temperature changes taking showers, too.
• Wear a life jacket that fits if you go swimming or boating.
• Check for restrictions before lighting outdoor fires.