With the summer finally here, the heat and humidity is back again in Chicago. Don’t let the sun spoil your summer fun. Here are some tips for staying safe as the temperature rises.

How to prevent heat-related illness

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages.
• Avoid any strenuous work outside. If you do need to work outdoors, make sure to stay in the shade as much as possible and to take breaks frequently. Take advantage of the cooler hours in the morning and evening for major work outdoors.  
• Make sure to never leave children or pets inside a parked car, even when the windows are cracked. When a car is parked in the sun, the conditions can be very dangerous.
• Apply sunblock and wear a wide-brimmed hat

Symptoms to look out for

• Heat Exhaustion: Pale, flushed or red skin with dizziness, headache, exhaustion, weakness, and vomiting due to loss of body fluids from sweating. Treatment: rest in a cool place, apply wet cloths to their skin and slowly begin to rehydrate with water.
• Heat Stroke: Hot, red and dry skin; decreased awareness or unconsciousness; rapid weak pulse and shallow breathing; vomiting and high temperature. Treatment: this can be a life-threatening situation so if you or someone you know is experiencing these conditions, call 9-1-1 immediately. Apply wet cloths to the skin and ice packs to the wrists, ankles, underarms, and neck as well.
• Heat Cramps: Painful muscle cramps and spasms, usually in the legs and stomach. Treatment: slowly rehydrate with water and gently stretch cramped muscles.

Who is most at risk?

• Children and Infants
• Senior Citizens
• People with medical conditions

As always, if you “See Something, Say Something”. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity, call 855-RPRT-2-S4 (855-777-8274).