ABILENE, Texas -

The heat is back and it's no surprise that too much can be problematic for many people's health.

On average, heat is to blame for more deaths each year than flooding, lightning, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined.

If you find yourself outside during the hottest part of the day, between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., drinking water, finding shade, and taking breaks are recommended.

It's also beneficial to avoid too much protein, as it can raise your body's temperature and increase water loss.

Even following these tips could lead to heat exhaustion, marked by nausea, fatigue, and rapid heartbeat.

Kay Durilla, Nursing Program Manager with the Abilene-Taylor County Public Health District, said that heat stroke signs are similar to heat exhaustion but the person would also stop sweating.

If this happens, that person needs immediate medical attention to bring their temperature down.

Children and the elderly are more prone to heat related illnesses because their bodies tend to heat up faster.