The City of Evanston’s Health and Human Services Department has declared a Heat Advisory for today and is urging all residents to take preventive actions during this hot weather to avoid heat-related illness, such as heatstroke.
The National Weather Service has indicated the heat index may rise to between 103°F and 109°F this afternoon.
The Health and Human Services Department recommends residents take the following actions to prevent heat-related illnesses:
- Drink lots of water, and avoid alcohol, caffeine and high salt intake
- Stay in cool, shaded areas while outdoors, and keep the blinds drawn or lights down indoors
- Use air conditioners or fans; avoid excessive exposure to heat in unventilated areas
- Reduce physical activity
- Take cool baths or showers, and use cool towels
- Wear loose, light cotton clothing and a breathable hat
- Eat light meals; avoid eating heavy meals and using the oven
- Do not let anyone sit in a hot car, even for a few minutes
Community members are also reminded to check on people at risk for heat-related illness, especially elderly individuals.
As part of the Heat Advisory, residents are encouraged to take advantage of cooling centers across the city during their operating hours today:
- Chandler-Newberger Center, 1028 Central St., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Fleetwood-Jourdain Center, 1655 Foster St., 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Levy Senior Center, 300 Dodge Ave., 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Robert Crown Center, 1701 Main St., 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Main Evanston Public Library, 1703 Orrington Ave., 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- North Branch Library, 2026 Central St.,10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Chicago Ave./Main St. Branch Library, 900 Chicago Ave.. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.