Excessive high heat and humidity can cause heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat stroke.
At-Risk Age Groups
Infants and children under 4 and adults over 65 are more sensitive to high heat and humidity.
Safety Tips
If heat becomes unbearable, take the following steps:
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun and wear sun screen and a hat
- Avoid using heat producing appliances
- Close shades and blinds on the side of the house facing the sun
- Drink lots of water or natural fruit juices, avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages
- If no air conditioning is available, keep windows open, use fans to circulate air, sleep on lowest level
- Minimize outdoor physical activities until evening hours
- Persons with serious health conditions should remain in an air conditioned building
- Relocate to an air conditioned place (shopping mall or movie theater, friends or family home, Park District Center, Motel or Hotel)
- Wear loose, light colored cotton clothing
Family, Neighbors & Pets
- Do not leave children and pets unattended in a vehicle.
- Check on family, neighbors, and friends. Offer them shelter if necessary.
911
Only call 911 for actual Fire and Police emergencies.