FEELING THE HEAT; SUN BAKES SIMI, CONEJO VALLEYS.

Byline: Sylvia L. Oliande Daily News Staff Writer

If you're planning to go to the beach at all this summer, this is the week to do it.

Tuesday's scorching temperatures are expected to continue today, with Simi Valley's mercury to range from the mid-90s to 105 degrees. Those living and working in the Oxnard and Camarillo areas will be in a more comfortable 75 to 80 degrees, with the beaches cooler still, in the low 70s.

``We might have some fluctuation (of) a few degrees here or there, but basically it's going to be this way through early next week,'' said Jonathan Slemmer, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.

As the temperatures rise, the air quality worsens, and Simi Valley may have air at the unhealthy level for the first time this summer.

Kent Field, meteorologist for the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District, said the ozone level in Simi Valley may measure 110 on the pollutant standard index; PSIs over 100 are considered unhealthy. He said people, especially children and those with respiratory problems, should take precautions, especially during the hottest part of the day.

``Have a quiet time for kids in the afternoon, and let them play in the morning and toward sunset,'' Field said.

Tuesday's highs reached the low 90s in most areas, and people did what they could to beat the heat. It was a good day to window-shop, as malls and indoor shopping centers provided free air conditioning.

``It's the only place that's cool,'' said Camarillo resident Alison Hemmens, 24, who was at The Oaks shopping center with several friends. ``We have other errands, but we were definitely thinking of something to do that's indoors.''

Ice cream shops and beverage counters were doing a brisk business. The Coffee Bean had quite a few customers, but the popular drink was not hot java.

``Our (iced) blended mochas are always popular, but usually during the summer we sell a lot more,'' said manager Tisha Eason-Towers. ``People buy hot coffee in the morning, but the majority of our sales are cold now.''

For those students who had to be in school for at least half the day, officials were making sure to keep them out of the heat.

``They seem to be faring pretty well since we have air conditioning,'' said Craig Nicks, summer school principal at Moorpark High School. ``We're lucky. We're a new school, and our other summer school site, Chaparral Middle School, was remodeled recently, so we both have air in the classrooms.''

Also, physical education classes this summer will turn to alternate activities during the hottest times of the day, such as using weight rooms or doing class work.

Parks and recreation officials in the area reported a 15 percent to 20 percent increase in attendance at public pools over the last few days.

In the Conejo Valley, the Conejo Recreation and Park District has seen a jump in use at its two pools - at Thousand Oaks and Newbury Park high schools - but expects it to increase even more in the coming days.

``We're ready for them,'' said Steve Wiley, recreation services manager. ``We still have plenty of room to accommodate people.

``As people try to get out of the heat, they come to the pools. When we have a maximum crowd, we have a maximum number of (lifeguards) on the decks and in the chairs. We add guards as the crowds grow.''

BEAT THE HEAT

With temperatures expected to average 100 degrees over the next 10 days, the American Red Cross Los Angeles Chapter offers the following safety tips for those hot days:

Dress for the heat: Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear a hat or use an umbrella.

Drink water: Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.

Eat light: Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increase metabolic heat.

No salt tablets: Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.

Slow down: Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning from 4 to 7 a.m.

Stay in: Remain indoors when possible.

CAPTION(S):

2 Photos, Box

PHOTO (1--Color) Instructor Jonathan Hoffman encourages one of his students to swim out to him at the Rancho Simi Community Park pool Wednesday.

(2--Color) Jason Herman tells Kellee Eberle to fall like a tree during her lesson.

David Sprague/Daily News

BOX: BEAT THE HEAT (See text)