"Extreme temperatures can pose a serious threat for those without access to a cool place, and, unfortunately, heat-related illnesses claim the lives of people in Illinois every year," Smiddy said. "I urge everyone to know the signs of heat stroke, take a few moments to check on elderly or sick neighbors and get to a cool place before you`re overheated and are feeling badly."
Symptoms of heat-related illness include headaches, skin that is hot to the touch, increased body temperature, loss of consciousness, seizures and irregular heartbeats. Smiddy urges residents to stay cool and avoid illness by increasing water intake, decrease strenuous, outdoor physical activity and remain in air-conditioning when possible.
Illinois maintains over 120 state facilities that can provide a cool, comfortable place for those in need to stay safe during extreme heat. The centers remain open during normal business hours from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday excluding holidays. For more information about cooling centers or to find a location near you, please call the Illinois Department of Human Services hotline at 800-843-6154 or visit www.illinois.gov/KeepCool.
Area Cooling Centers Include:
Rock Island County Department of Human Services (500 42nd St. Ste. 6, 2nd Floor, in Rock Island and 4711 44th St., Suite 3, in Rock Island)
Mt. Carroll Firehouse, (318 South Clay, in Mt. Carroll - Call 815-244-5313)
River Valley District Library, (214 S Main St., in Port Byron)
Whiteside County Department of Human Services (2605 Woodlawn Rd., in Sterling)
Henry County Department of Human Services (125 West South St., in Kewanee)
# # #
