This weekend is going to be HOT ! With the heat index and the heat island effect , temperatures can be particularly hazardous for children, the elderly, and those with special needs and pets. In addition to discomfort and fatigue, extremely high temperatures can cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. To protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors, please familiarize yourself with the following heat exhaustion symptoms.
Cool, moist skin with goose bumps when in the heat.
Heavy sweating.
Faintness.
Dizziness.
Fatigue.
Weak, rapid pulse.
Low blood pressure upon standing.
Muscle cramps.
In extreme heat:
Stay out of the sun. If you must be in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15).
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-caffinated fluids. Water, diluted juices and electrolyte solutions are best. Stay away from carbonated drinks.
Avoid alcohol.
If you are on a fluid-restricted diet or taking diuretics, consult your doctor
Stay in the shade or under awnings as much as possible.
Keep rooms well ventilated with air conditioners and fans.
Keep your windows open if you don't have a fan or air conditioning.
Cool down with periodic cool baths or showers.
Take advantage of city cooling centers, public pools and air-conditioned stores and malls.
Never leave children, the elderly, or those who require special care periods of intense summer heat.
Make a special effort to check on your neighbors during a heat wave, especially if they are seniors, young children, and people with special needs or live 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
Find a cooling center near you by calling 311 or checking the City of Chicago website.
Infants and children up to four years of age, people 65 years of age and older, who are overweight, people who are ill or on certain medications, and pregnant people are at higher risk for heat-related illness. In some cases, exposure to excess heat has been linked to poor birth outcomes. Pregnant people should avoid extreme heat, stay well hydrated and follow the advice of their medical providers.