Prairie State Wire

CHICAGO – With dangerously high levels of heat forecast across Illinois in the coming days, including heat index forecasts approaching 100 degrees, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is warning residents to take preventive actions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Exposure to extreme heat, particularly prolonged exposure, can cause serious health complications such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, IDPH officials said. The Department urges Illinoisans to protect themselves, their families, and their pets from overheating and related illnesses. This is especially important for very young children, pregnant individuals, and older adults. Public health officials also remind residents to check on vulnerable people who live alone without air conditioning.

To stay safe during extreme heat:

- Stay in an air-conditioned area during the hottest hours of the day. If you don't have air conditioning at home, visit a public place like a shopping mall or library. Cooling centers can be found on the Keep Cool Illinois website.

- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that reflects heat and sunlight.

- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water frequently; do not wait until you are thirsty. Avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol as they can dehydrate you.

- Avoid unnecessary hard work or activities outside or in buildings without air-conditioning between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when temperatures peak.

- Minimize sun exposure; wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.

- Slow down; reduce strenuous activities or reschedule them for cooler times of the day. Those at risk should stay in the coolest available place.

Symptoms of heatstroke include:

- Body temperature over 103 degrees Fahrenheit

- Difficulty breathing

- Elevated heart rate

- Skin hot to the touch

- Dizziness, nausea, or disorientation

If these symptoms occur, call 911 immediately. While waiting for medical assistance, use ice packs on the neck and underarms and drink cool water to lower body temperature.

This time of year also brings strong ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause severe sunburns. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen with SPF30 or higher and protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats when the UV index exceeds six.

Additionally:

- Never leave pets in parked cars as they can suffer from heat-related illness too.

- Provide fresh water for pets and keep it in a shady area.

Further information about preventing heat-related illnesses is available on IDPH's Hot Weather: Understanding and Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses site and the National Weather Service's heat safety website. Ready Illinois provides additional resources on protecting yourself during extreme heat conditions at its Extreme Heat page.