The Heat is On: Cooling Centers, Safety Tips

Common sense is key when dealing with extreme heat.

Temperatures are expected to soar this week well above the 90-degree mark, and heat indexes will make it feel as if it is more than 100 degrees.

The McHenry County Sheriff’s Department and McHenry County Healthy Department are encouraging everyone to keep a close eye on senior citizens, young children and pets to help prevent heat-related medical conditions, according to a sheriff’s department press release. 

They also are encouraging everyone to stay hydrated, according to the press release.

Cooling Center

McHenry County has one cooling center in Woodstock at the Illinois Health and Human Services Building, 2215 Lake Shore Drive.

Libraries, community buildings, local retailers and community pools also can serve as good locations to get out of the heat. for places to beat the heat and to entertain your children (and pets) this week.

Help for Seniors

Senior Services Associates of McHenry County can help find senior citizens a place to cool off and assist with other resources, according to the news release.

For more information, call 815-356-7357.

Need a Break While Traveling?

Is the air conditioning out in your vehicle?

For those in need of a place to cool down while traveling, the state offers cooling centers at its seven Illinois tollway Oases.

Tips for Those Working in Heat

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages those working outdoors this week to take extra caution since they may be at risk for heat stress, according to the news release. 

Heat stress can result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps or heat rashes and can increase the risk of injuries in workers who could experience sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses, and dizziness.

For more information and tips on how workers can stay safe in extreme heat, visit the Centers for Disease Control’s website.

Those who are feeling the effects of the heat are encouraged to seek medical assistance immediately.

Tips for Keeping Vehicle Maintained in Extreme Heat

Click here to see for keeping your vehicle properly maintained in extreme heat and encourages motorists to keep a well-stocked emergency kit in their vehicles.