More Heat on the Way, So Stay Cool

SPRINGFIELD - Heat and humidity started early this summer and the long hot days makes it more important that you stay cool. July is National Extreme Heat Safety Month and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) has some easy tips to keep you cool all summer long.

"Across the U.S. in 2023, we have seen more than 2,300 deaths attributed to heat related illness," said IEMA-OHS Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. "Illinois has already experienced several days of extreme heat with more on the way."

Extreme heat is defined as two to three days of heat and humidity with successive 90+ degree days. Urban areas are more at risk. Take these steps to prevent heat-related illnesses:

• Hydrate with water, not caffeinated or alcoholic beverages
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, and lightweight clothing
• Avoid strenuous activity during mid-day
• Indoors, use awnings or curtains to deflect the sun
• Fans will move air around, but does not lower your temperature
• Use air conditioning inside your home or visit a store or local mall
• Know your local cooling centers in Illinois
• Never leave children or pets in a vehicle
• Get trained in first aid to help those with heat illness
• Check on neighbors and elderly who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat
• Learn the differences between a heat watch vs heat warning (NWS)

These tips will keep you stay safe and help others too. More tips on extreme heat safety can be found here: https://ready.illinois.gov/hazards/extremetempshot.html

Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS): Ready.Illinois.gov

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