It’s hot out there. And I’m not talking about sexy-costume or washboard-abs heat. I’m talking about summer in Atlanta, the sun beating down on your face, humidity levels making the walls sweat hot.

We’re in the early hours of Dragon Con, and this reporter has the best interests of convention attendees at heart. Please make sure to drink fluids that will keep you hydrated.

Not all fluids are necessarily going to help in the hydration department. For instance, caffeine dehydrates. But the water in coffee, tea, and pop makes up for the effects of the caffeine within reason. Try to drink caffeine-laced drinks in light-to-moderate amounts. If you consume more than 500 milligrams of caffeine in a day, then you’re putting yourself at risk for dehydration.

If you factor in alcohol, you’re going to have to drink even more water to compensate. Alcohol increases urination and decreases your ability to retain water. So if you’re partaking in the libations, make sure to drink plenty of water to keep yourself from some serious misery.

Yes, I said misery. Sure mild dehydration might only give you a case of fuzzy-brain or induce an irritating headache. But serious dehydration can lead to nasty stuff like seizures, kidney failure, and death.

Yeah, this reporter is beginning to sound a little like your mother. But that’s okay, because I’m a mom. A Canadian Mom, so that gives me extra permission to have your back on this one.

We’re all here at Dragon Con for a good time. But you’re not going to have fun if you wind up sitting in cheap plastic chairs in the ER waiting room, counting the minutes until your turn comes up with the ER doc.

So hydrate, people! Carry a water bottle, stop at a drinking fountain, or finish your drink with your meal in the food court.

For more information, read “Dehydration Myths: 7 Things You Should Know About Staying Hydrated” at the Huffington Post.