IEMA-OHS Recognizes Extreme Heat Safety Month
[July 08, 2025]
Springfield July is Extreme Heat Safety Month, and the Illinois
Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS)
is asking everyone to understand the danger to you, your family, and
your pets.
The best preparedness is individual preparedness, explained IEMA-OHS
Acting Director Theodore (Ted) Berger. If you and your family are ready
for extreme heat, you can prevent inconvenience, frustration, and even
illness. The recent week-long heat wave was a clear reminder in the
Midwest that heat affects us too.
Extreme heat is defined as high heat and humidity temperatures above 90
degrees for at least two to three days. Older adults, children, and
people with certain illnesses and chronic conditions are at greater risk
from extreme heat. Take these steps to prepare for extreme heat and
prevent heat-related illnesses:
Hydrate with water, not caffeinated or alcoholic beverages
Wear light-colored, lightweight, and loose-fitting clothing
Avoid strenuous activity during mid-day
[to top of second column]
|
Use awnings or curtains indoors to deflect the sun
Fans will move air around, but does not lower your temperature
Use air conditioning inside your home or visit a store or local mall
Know your local cooling centers in Illinois
Never leave children or pets in a vehicle
Get trained in first aid to help those with heat illness
Check on neighbors and elderly who may be more vulnerable to extreme
heat
Learn the differences between a heat watch vs heat warning (NWS):
click here
More tips on extreme heat safety can be found here:
click
here
Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS):
click
here
[Illinois Emergency Management Agency and
Office of Homeland Security]
|
