Hultgren urges residents to keep cool

“The extreme heat combined with high humidity makes it very dangerous for some residents, such as children and senior citizens, to spend a lot of time outside as it becomes very easy to quickly overheat,” said Hultgren. “There are some services offered by the state to assist residents in keeping cool this summer, but by following a few small tips, most heat related illnesses can be prevented.”

Some of the tips posted on the website to help Illinois residents keep cool this summer include:

• Stay in an air-conditioned space such as a home, the library, the mall, or a movie theater;
• Drink lots of water and natural juices. Alcoholic beverages, coffee and sodas should be avoided;
• Keep shades drawn and blinds closed, but keep windows slightly open;
  Stay out of the sun and avoid going out in the heat;
• Keep electric lights off or turned down;
• Take cool baths or showers;
• Wear loose, light cotton clothing;
• Do not eat heavy meals and avoid cooking with your oven;
• Avoid or minimize physical exertion;
• Do not sit in a hot car, even for a short time, and never leave a child in a hot car;
• Check on family members, friends and neighbors to make sure they stay cool and safe.

There are also a few steps that can be taken to help ensure the safety of family pets, including:

• Provide water and shelter from the sun at all times;
• Restrict activity during extreme heat;
• Never leave pets in parked vehicles—even moderate heat rapidly increases and can kill the pet quickly.