With Monday’s heat index’s reaching near 110 degrees, the American Red Cross of Illinois is reminding residents to take precautions as dangerously high temperatures move into the region this week. Health advocates say extreme heat can be dangerous for anyone, and they’re encouraging everyone to remember three important steps: stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay connected.
The Red Cross recommends drinking water regularly and is urging residents to drink about a cup every 20 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty. People should avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages, and parents should make sure babies are being fed often. Signs of dehydration can include fewer wet diapers or darker urine.
Residents are also encouraged to stay cool by spending time in air-conditioned locations. If your home is too warm, consider visiting places like a mall, library, or cooling center. Outdoor workers and athletes should take frequent breaks in the shade and drink water or a sports drink every 20 minutes as well.
Kellie O’Connell, CEO of Red Cross Illinois, says knowing how to protect yourself and loved ones during extreme heat can save lives. O'Connell is also asking people to check on friends, neighbors, older adults, those with chronic conditions, outdoor workers, and athletes during the heat. It is also crucial to never leave a child or pet unattended inside a parked vehicle, and to make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.
The Red Cross says heat-related illnesses can become serious quickly. Heat cramps may include heavy sweating and muscle pain. Heat exhaustion symptoms can include weakness, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, and cool, clammy skin. Anyone experiencing those symptoms should move to a cooler place, drink fluids, and seek medical help if symptoms continue.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Signs include a high body temperature, confusion, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, nausea, or vomiting. Officials say to call 911 immediately, move the person to a cooler location, and help lower their body temperature.
The Red Cross also warns that extreme heat combined with a power outage can be especially dangerous. Residents should stay in air conditioning when possible and keep coolers stocked with food, water, and medicine.
For additional heat safety information, the Red Cross recommends downloading the free First Aid and Emergency apps, available by searching for the American Red Cross in your smartphone's app store or by visiting redcross.org/apps.
Additional information on the American Red Cross can be found at www.redcross.org.
