LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - Many professions require people to work outdoors, but staying safe is a major concern.

In the hot summer days, working outdoors is something many try to avoid. But for some professions, it's not an option.

"We working from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. now due to the heat," says Arthur Taylor, crew leader for a Little Rock Public Works crew.

Taylor is the crew leader for a group repairing sidewalks outside Baptist Hospital on Kanis. He says working on the hot asphalt requires extra caution.

"We take frequent breaks as needed you know. And drink plenty of liquids like water, Gatorade or whatever. Just try to stay cool. But it's kind of hard when it's humid and it's hot. But we just try to watch out for each other," Taylor says.

Fire fighters experience heat on a daily basis, but those heavy uniforms makes it even worse.

"You're talking about putting on all this gear. All of that heat is [going to] stay maintained inside of those clothes. It doesn't have a way of escaping until you're able to get away and take those clothes off and cool back down," says Captain John Pflasterer with North Little Rock fire department.

Capt. Pflasterer says they take added precautions when out on duty.

"It's really important to keep watch over their core temperature. And make sure it doesn't rise too much. We set up rehab areas and those guys will come out and rest before they go back and fight the fire," Capt. Pflasterer explains.

When it comes to keeping those yards in tip-top shape, it's not easy.

"If you're working longer days out in this heat, it's going to take a toll on you," says Brandon Shumway with Service Lawn Care.

Shumway says he takes plenty of breaks to keep cool.

"Whenever I get done with one yard and go to another, I make sure to cool myself off with the A/C and just get some water in me to kind of recover from yard to yard," Shumway adds.

Regardless of your profession, hydration and rest are key to surviving this kind of summer heat.

Outdoor workers aren't the only ones we need to keep an eye on. Our pets also need special attention during these hot summer days.

Dr. Jessi Rhodes with Briarwood Animal Hospital says there are some signs your pet is getting overheated.

"Excessive panting, changes in energy level, they may just seem extremely tired to you. If it's more advanced they might have difficulty standing, they may stumble, act dizzy those are all more advanced signs that we have a problem," says Dr. Rhodes.

Dr. Rhodes says smaller breeds and those short faces, like pugs or Pekinese, may have more trouble with the heat. She recommends outdoor dogs have plenty of shade, water and have someone check on them during the day.