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Folks just about everywhere are enjoying rising temps and sunny skies. But for some – especially kids, seniors and people who are obese – extreme heat can quickly mean health problems. Being prepared can help you stay safe while you have fun in the sun.

First, it’s important to be aware of the dangers and have a plan for those who may be at risk. Along with preventing sunburns, be able to recognize symptoms of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. When these go unnoticed they can become serious and in some cases fatal.

Having a plan can also help you prepare for power outages that may occur. Remember to keep an emergency kit in your home and car for those just-in-case moments.

While you can’t always stay out of the sun, there are a few things you can do to beat the heat:

• Drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol and caffeine)
• Do not leave kids or pets in the car
• Stay inside and avoid the heat, especially during the hottest time of the day (usually 2 to 4 pm)
• Keep the heat out: use fans, AC, close blinds, etc. – need cooling assistance? Learn more about LIHEAP
• Dress appropriately (loose, light-colored clothing)
• Relax and try not to over do it

Whatever the weather or emergency may be, knowing what steps to take can help your family stay cool, calm and prepared for anything.

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Whether you want to compare health plans or you’ve been denied coverage because of a pre-existing condition, a new site may be able to help.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launched HealthCare.gov — making it easier to navigate your options and get the care you need.

Along with resources, price comparisons and information about the healthcare bill, people who’ve previously been turned away for insurance can sign up for the Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP). PCIP is temporary coverage until the healthcare bill takes effect in 2014. Once the new law becomes effective, insurers can no longer deny coverage or raise rates due to pre-existing conditions.

You can find out which plan is best for you and/or if you’re eligible for PCIP at HealthCare.gov.

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According to some, choosing brown rice instead of white means you’re more health conscious. For others it’s simply a matter of taste. Whatever your reason, a new study shows opting for brown rice may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Did you know that white rice can increase your blood sugar levels?

Researchers found that replacing white rice with brown rice and whole grains could cut the risk of diabetes by a third. It doesn’t take much either. Folks who ate two or more servings of brown rice per week reduced their risk by 11 percent.

Keep in mind, exercising and eating a balanced diet can also help. Whether that includes switching to brown rice is up to you.

Know your risk, learn how to manage or prevent type 2 diabetes and take action today.

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Being short has its ups and downs, but a new study suggests your short stature may also impact your risk of heart disease.

What’s considered short? According to the study, women under 5′ and men under 5’5″ are 50 percent more likely to die early of heart problems. Keep in mind, weight and lifestyle habits also add to your risk.

So, while you can’t do much about your height, there are things you can do for a healthier heart:

• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit or don’t start smoking
• Watch your blood pressure
• Eat well

Making even a few changes can help prevent heart disease – whether you’re short, tall or somewhere in between.

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Making healthy lifestyle changes isn’t easy. And it seems finding the motivation to get moving is half the battle. Luckily, whether you’re 6 or 65, there are lots of fun, cheap ways to get active and healthy.

Here are 5 tips to help you get moving:

1. Those shoes were made for walkin’ – shoot for 30 minutes of walking each day
2. Get fit: your green garden awaits
3. Make it a group effort – get family, friends or coworkers together for a game of basketball, volleyball, etc.
4. Take the “work” out of your workout – hula-hoop, jump rope, dance – find something you like to do and do it 3 to 5 times a week for 30 minutes
5. Make realistic goals, find out what motivates you and have fun!

While it’s not going to happen over night, there are steps you can take to help yourself along the way. Learn more about how to eat better, find a balance and live a little healthier each day.

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If you’ve stood in the sunscreen aisle recently I’m sure you’ve wondered the same thing I have – do I want an SPF 30? 50? 100? Are UVA or UVB rays worse? Do I use a spray or a lotion? Fortunately, the Environmental Working Group’s 2010 Sunscreen Guide provides some “straight talk about SPF”.

So, which one’s actually live up to their packaging?

Well, it turns out that more than 90 percent of the sunscreens out there either don’t protect your skin from sun damage or contain harmful chemicals – and in some cases both. Not the best news. The updated guide provides a list of the most recommended sunscreens with the least amount of chemicals.

A few things to keep in mind when you buy or apply an SPF:

• There’s no proof that sunscreens with SPF 50+ are any better than the others
• Sunscreen shouldn’t be your only protections against the sun
• UVA protection is not regulated by the FDA
• Avoid sprays and reapply often – even sweat proof, waterproof, etc.

Now, don’t get me wrong, the sun is wonderful. But until we have more information about sunscreen, the best thing you can do is wear an SPF on the EWG’s list, limit sun exposure and practice safe sunning.

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A few months ago, Michelle Obama launched the “Let’s Move” campaign to help kids get active and healthy. Now, the Childhood Obesity Task Force is making some recommendations on where to begin.

The goal: to return to an obesity rate of 5 percent by 2030. This won’t be a small feat either. Almost 32 percent of kids between the age of 2 to 19 are overweight or obese.

This means 1 in every 3 kids has a much greater risk of developing diabetes, heart problems and other diseases. But with a few healthy habits, more information, better access and affordable nutrition, it can be done.

The task force has come up with over 70 recommendations, many of which we can start doing today, to help kids eat right and stay active:

• A healthy start: prenatal care, support, and quality child care with healthy food and activities
• Empowering parents and caregivers with accurate information and healthy choices, products, and improved services
• Provide healthy food and nutrition education (remember making food pyramids?) at school
• Improve access to healthy, affordable food
• Offer quality physical education, recess, access to parks, rec centers, and more in- and after-school activities

Whether your kids are overweight or not, there are lots of fun, budget-friendly ways to help them eat right and get them moving. You never know, you may improve your own health while you’re at it.