Get Ready: Sweltering Temps on the Way

Hot enough for you? If you haven't heard that question enough yet this summer, get ready for Wednesday, Thursday and beyond.

Say good-bye to open windows, balmy breezes and 57-degree nights and say hello to sweltering days, air-conditioned air and endless rounds of watering the flowers.

As we head toward yet another stretch of 90-plus-degree days, the village of Romeoville has designated the Recreation Center at 900 W. Romeo Road and Fire Station No. 3 at 698 Birch Drive as cooling center. If a cooling center is needed after 9:30pm, residents should call the at 815-886-2141.

We appreciate your assistance in getting the word out and if you have elderly or disabled neighbors please check on them. For more information please contact Romeoville Emergency Management 815-886-0021.

While it will be hot today, with the high temperature topping out at 92 and the overnight low expected to be 72, the National Weather Service forecast for Thursday will be far worse. It should be our first 100-degree day of the year and it will feel like 110, the forecast said. At night, the low will be 76.

The , located in Romeoville, issued this warning Tuesday in reference to Thursday's heat:

"To minimize the threat of excessive heat exposure, take frequent breaks during any strenuous outdoor activity, preferably in an air-conditioned location. If possible, reschedule these activities during the cooler early morning or eening hours. Stay hydrated with non-alcoholic fluids, preferably water, and wear light-fitting loose clothes. Provide shelter from the sun and water for pets. Do not leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, even for a minute."

Other tips for this hot weather:

• Check on the elderly, those with medical conditions, and those with special needs during periods of extreme hot weather.
• Become familiar with the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
  and what to do if you or someone you know is suffering from either. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, light-headedness, headache, cool and clammy skin, heavy perspiration, shallow breathing, muscle tremors, and cramping. Additional symptoms for heat stroke, which can be fatal, include severe headache, a red and dry face, skin that is hot to the touch, rapid and shallow breathing, significantly elevated body temperature, weak pulse, changes in consciousness, and seizures or cardiac arrhythmias. Call 911 immediately.
• Stay in an air-conditioned space. If one is not available, go to a cooling center.
• Drink lots of water and natural juices. Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and soft drinks.
• Stay out of the sun and avoid going out in the heat.
• Take cool baths or showers and wear loose, light cotton clothing.
• Do not eat heavy meals and avoid cooking with your oven.
• Avoid or minimize physical exertion.
• Do not sit in a hot car, even for a short time. Never leave a child or pet in a hot car.
• Do not open fire hydrants, which could dramatically reduce the amount of water available should there be a fire.

Heat emergency information:

• An excessive heat watch means conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event to meet or exceed local excessive heat warning criteria in the next 12 to 48 hours.
• An excessive heat advisory means hazardous heat conditions have begun or will begin within 36 hours and, if caution is not exercised, they could become life threatening.