DECATUR - The trek across city blocks of sun-baked asphalt in search of corn dogs, scrambler rides and live music is expected to be, well, hot this year.

With hundreds of thousands of people expected to pack downtown for Decatur Celebration this weekend, a little common sense and planning with regards to health and safety can keep dedicated fans going from the Razzle Dazzle Goodtimes Parade to the very end.

The forecast for the weekend includes a heat index anticipated to break 100 degrees, and experts advise attendees to keep up with their bodies' hydration needs by drinking plenty of water. The Richland Community College water oasis, a Celebration staple for many years in the southeast corner of Central Park, offers free water to patrons.

Frank Richardson, who works in the Richland maintenance department, was staffing the station Friday as organizers prepared for the start of the festival. He said he already had served quite a few satisfied customers.

"We fill up everything from jugs to you name it," he said. "Anything they have, we fill it."

Alternating alcohol consumption with water or taking alcohol in moderation are two ways to keep from succumbing to its dehydrating effects, health experts ad ;vised.

Another way to avoid heat-related illness is to take frequent breaks in some of downtown's shady locations. One such spot is the Decatur Memorial Hospital Welcome Center on the north side of Central Park. It offers a walkthrough tent with a cooling fan. Visitors can get a copy of the Herald & Review's tabloid guide to the Celebration and pick up free sunscreen, fans and visors to combat the sun's scorching rays.

The DMH Care Center, at the intersection of East Main and Water streets, has an air-conditioned trailer set up for new moms to breastfeed in comfort and privacy, said Anne Davis of the hospital's marketing department. Also at that location are a diaper-changing station, blood pressure screenings and free bug repellent and antiseptic wipe packets.

To help Celebration connoisseurs keep from contaminating their fried mushrooms, sweet potato fries or alligator on a stick with germs they've picked up along the way, the festival offers handwashing stations on East Main, North Park and Franklin streets.

Those who require emergency assistance throughout the weekend should keep an eye out for roving emergency medical services and Decatur Police Department personnel.

Annie Getsinger can be reached at agetsinger@herald-review.com or 421-6968.