CHECKUP TIPS TO KEEP YOUR COOL IN SUMMER HEAT.

Byline: - Elizabeth Smilor

Summer officially started last Thursday. The first scorching hot days arrived before that and more will surely follow in the next few months. So, the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services has already issued its first advisory on surviving the heat. The notice reminds us how to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion is caused by insufficient water and salt consumption and a lack of sweat. Heat stroke, which can be fatal, is caused by overexposure to extreme heat and the body's inability to regulate its temperature.

Here are some steps the county health department recommends for avoiding these conditions:

--Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

--Drink water often.

--During peak heat hours, stay in an air-conditioned area.

--Avoid unnecessary exertion outside or in a building without air conditioning.

--Avoid unnecessary sun exposure.

--Try to avoid direct sunlight. Wear a hat.

--Never leave pets, children or elderly people unattended in closed cars or other vehicles.

WALK THE DOG: Put a leash on Fido and join hundreds of other canines and people on Sunday for Guide Dogs of America's seventh annual L.A. Dog Jog & Walk in Brentwood. This year, the walk will be led by Amber McLain, 18, and her guide dog, Dolly, who together will start classes at California State University, Northridge, in the fall. There will also be a silly pet tricks contest, canine demonstrations and activities for kids at the event. The two-mile run and one-mile walk begin at 8 a.m. in Brentwood Village at San Vicente Boulevard and Darlington Avenue. Registration is $20. To get an entry form, call [phone] or send an e-mail to igefevents(at)aol.com.

GET TESTED: Wednesday is National HIV Testing Day. To find out if you have HIV, which can lead to AIDS, talk to your doctor, local health department or call the CDC National STD and AIDS Hotline at [phone] to find a testing location. Or log onto www.hivtesting.org.