The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) reminds the public to take extra precautions and to stay informed about weather-related conditions. Also, with the hot and humid conditions, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) stresses that residents and visitors take precautions to prevent mosquito bites and related diseases such as the West Nile Virus. “Heat exhaustion” is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. “Heat stroke” is more serious, and occurs when the body starts to lose its ability to regulate itself. The telltale signs of heat stroke are:

• An extremely high body temperature, such as 103 degrees or above
• Dizziness and nausea
• A throbbing headache and a pulse that is rapid and strong
• Skin that is red, hot and dry

If you see someone suffering from heat stroke, take immediate action. Call 9-1-1 immediately and then try to move the person into a cool place and cool the person with water. Residents can also take advantage of the City’s Cooling Centers to find relief from extreme heat. Call 311 to find a Colling Center near you.