Important safety information for this week’s heat wave

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL - The McHenry County Department of Health and the McHenry County Emergency Management Agency are sharing crucial information to help residents navigate this week’s anticipated heat wave, which is forecasted to span from Monday, June 17, through Saturday, June 22, and is expected to impact McHenry County and the surrounding areas. With peak heat indices potentially exceeding 100 degrees, it is important to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure proper safety.

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for portions of north-central Illinois, northeast Illinois, and northwest Indiana. The forecasted weather indicates that heat indices will largely be in the mid and upper 90s, with the potential to locally exceed 100 degrees at times. There is also a limited risk of thunderstorms throughout the week.

Extreme heat can lead to heat stroke, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and death, according to the CDC. Groups that are more vulnerable to the heat are pregnant women, people with heart or lung conditions, young children, older adults, athletes, and outdoor workers. Here are critical steps to follow:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day (at least 1 ½ to 2 quarts of water), even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.

Limit Outdoor Activities: If possible, avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks, wear lightweight clothing, and use sunscreen.

Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Keep a close eye on children, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions. They are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses.

Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Seek medical attention if you or someone you know experiences these symptoms.

Pet Safety: Ensure that your pets have access to shade, fresh water, and a cool place to rest. Never leave pets in parked vehicles or out in direct heat. Minimize outdoor time and remember if it is too hot for you it is also too hot for your pet. When you do take your pet outdoors, watch for burns on the pads of their paws from hot pavement and black tops.

Food Safety: Monitor refrigeration unit temperatures to ensure the units are working properly. Cold foods that require temperature control should be maintained at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Food temperatures can be checked using a clean, metal stemmed thermometer. If electricity is lost, keep refrigeration units closed during the power outage and check temperatures when power is restored. Foods that require refrigeration that are confirmed to be above 41 degrees Fahrenheit should be discarded.

Stay Cool: Spend time in air-conditioned places such as shopping malls, libraries, or community centers. If you don't have access to air conditioning, consider visiting cooling centers in your area. The McHenry County Emergency Management Agency maintains a list of cooling centers throughout McHenry County. These centers provide residents with a safe and air-conditioned environment to escape the heat.

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