Village Fire Department Reminds Residents how to Beat the Heat

With news from the National Weather Service that the heat index could reach up to 112 degrees today, the Village is reminding residents how to beat the heat.If you need a cool place to stay, , 3450 W 97th St, is serving as the village's cooling center until the temperature cools down. Residents may visit between 8 a.m.-10 p.m. this week.

Fire Chief Ronald Kleinhaus issued the following announcement regarding the extreme heat Thursday:

During the summer months, the temperature in Illinois can reach dangerous levels such as those we are experiencing now.  Exteme heat can be particularly hazardous for children, seniors, those with special needs, and pets.  In addition to discomfort and fatigue, high temperatures can cause heat-related illnesses: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.  To protect yourself and others, please familiarize yourself with the following guidelines.

• Know the terms used by the National Weather Service during extreme heat: heat wave, excessive heat watch, heat advisor, excessive heat warning, and heat index.
• Stay out of the sun.  If you must be in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and a side-brimmed hat.
• Stay in the shade or under awnings as much as possible.
• Avoid overexertion and strenuous outdoor activities.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose -fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible to prevent sunburn.
• Consume plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty: water, diluted juices, and electrolyte solutions are best.  Stay away from carbonated drinks.
• Avoid alcohol.
• If your are on a fluid-restricted diet or taking diuretics, consulty your doctor before exposing yourself to heat.
• Keep lights in your home low or off, keep shades drawn and avoid using the oven.
• Keep rooms well ventilated with air conditioners and fans.  Keep your windows open if you don't have air conditioning or a fan.
• Cool down with cool, wet towels and periodic cool baths or showers.
• Take advantage of cooling centers, public pools, and air-conditioned stores and malls during periods of extreme heat.
• Exposure to air conditioning for even a few hours a day will reduce the risk for heat -related illness.
• Closely monitor children, the elderly, or those who require special care during periods of intense summer heat.
• Do not leave children or pets in a closed vehicle, even for a few minutes.  On a hot day, temeratures inside a closed vehicle can reach 140 degrees and higher within 30 minutes.
• Make a special effort to check on your neighbors during a heat wave, especially if they are seniors, familis with young children, people with special needs, or living alone.
• Seniors and others who may be sensitive to extreme heat should contact friends, neighbors, or relatives periodically throughout the day.
• Seek help if you feel symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION  

• Preparing for Heat Waves-American Red Cross
• Summer: No Sweat. A Summer Survival Guide- Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)
• Hot Weather Safety Tips for Senior Citizens- Illinois Department of Aging