Elgin officials: Take care as temps rise

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Updated: November 25, 2011 12:21AM

ELGIN — With temperatures predicted to soar into the mid-90s this week, the Elgin Fire Department is recommending residents take precautions to stay cool.

Heat indexes could top 100-105 degrees, and residents without air conditioning are encouraged to cool off at the city’s cooling center — the Elgin Police Department, 151 Douglas Ave. — at any time.

“Extreme weather can be detrimental to someone’s health,” said Fire Chief John Fahy. “The elderly, people with chronic illnesses, infants and young children are at greater risk for heat-related conditions. Everyone, however, should take precautions ... .”

Fahy also recommends:

Remain hydrated by drinking water before, during and after outdoor activities.

Take frequent breaks while working or playing outdoors.

Wear loose-fitting, light clothing; wear a hat outside.

Drink plenty of fluids but avoid beverages that have caffeine or alcohol.

Plan strenuous outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day; limit time outside during peak heat.

Pace physical activities, starting slowly and picking up the pace gradually.

During peak heat, seek air-conditioned areas such as at stores, malls and theaters.

Check on frail, elderly or home-bound individuals to make sure they are not affected by the heat.

Move to a cooler location at first sign of heat illness (dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps); rest and slowly drink a cool liquid.

Never leave a child or pet in a parked car or asleep in the direct sunlight.

Make sure pets have plenty of shade and water to drink.

Knowing what to look out for is as important as being prepared, says the DuPage County Health Department:

Heat exhaustion: Symptoms may include headaches, weak pulse, rapid pulse, excessive sweating and dizziness. In some instances there can be fainting, clammy skin, chills, cold, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps or very fast or very shallow breathing. If you suspect you have heat exhaustion, take action immediately to cool down. If possible, immerse yourself in cool water.

Heat stroke: Unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke victims have warm skin dry to the touch. That’s because they’ve sweated out all their extra water, leaving the body’s natural cooling system without a key cool-down mechanism. High fever, severe headaches, nausea, vomiting and a strong, rapid pulse accompany heat stroke. Victims may become confused and can lose consciousness. Heat stroke is a very serious; cool the victim and seek immediate medical assistance.