McHenry Co. Heat Wave: Cooling Center, Tips On How To Stay Safe

MCHENRY COUNTY, IL — Officials in McHenry County are urging residents to take steps to stay safe during an upcoming heat wave.

An excessive heat warning has been issued for the Chicago area from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, and heat index values between 110 and 115 degrees are expected. Heat index values could be higher in some areas, according to the National Weather Service.

According to the McHenry County Department of Health, heat index values are meant for shady areas with light wind conditions but those exposed to full sunshine could experience heat index values up to 15 degrees higher than forecasted.

"Staying informed and taking necessary precautions is critical to ensure everyone is safe during this extreme heat event," according to a news release from the health department.

Extreme heat can lead to heat stroke, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and death, according to health officials. Groups that are more vulnerable to the heat are pregnant women, people with heart or lung conditions, young children, older adults, athletes and outdoor workers, according to a news release..

The McHenry County Department of Health offers these tips for staying safe:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day (at least 1 1/2 to 2 quarts of water), even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can contribute to dehydration.
• Limit Outdoor Activities: If possible, avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks, wear lightweight clothing, and use sunscreen.
• Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Keep a close eye on children, the elderly, and those with chronic health conditions. They are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses.
• Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Seek medical attention if you or someone you know experiences these symptoms.
• Pet Safety: Ensure that your pets have access to shade, fresh water, and a cool place to rest. Never leave pets in parked vehicles or out in direct heat. Minimize outdoor time and remember if it is too hot for you it is also too hot for your pet. When you do take your pet outdoors, watch for burns on the pads of their paws from hot pavement and black tops.
• Food Safety: Monitor refrigeration unit temperatures to ensure the units are working properly. Cold foods that require temperature control should be maintained at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Food temperatures can be checked using a clean, metal stemmed thermometer. If electricity is lost, keep refrigeration units closed during the power outage and check temperatures when power is restored. Foods that require refrigeration that are confirmed to be above 41 degrees Fahrenheit should be discarded.
• Stay Cool: Spend time in air-conditioned places such as shopping malls, libraries, or community centers. If you don't have access to air conditioning, consider visiting cooling centers in your area.

The McHenry County Emergency Management Agency maintains a list of cooling centers throughout McHenry County. These cooling centers are available to residents:

• Ganek Municipal Center, 2200 Harnish Drive, Algonquin: Open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Phone number: 847-658-2700.
• Harvard Senior Center, 6817 Harvard Hills Road, Harvard: Open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Phone number: 815-943-2740.
• Mercy Health Harvard Hospital, 901 Grant Street, Harvard: Open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. own Thursday. Phone number: 815-943-5431.
• Island Lake Village Hall, 3720 Greenleaf Avenue, Island Lake: Open 24/7. Phone number: 847-526-8764.
• Irv Floress Safety Education Center: 1109 Crystal Lake Road, Lake in the Hills: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Phone number: 847-658-5676 - residents should call in advance before stopping out.
• Lakemoor Police Department, 28581 W. II Route 120, Lakemoor: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Phone number: 815-385-4111.
• Lakewood Village Hall, 2500 Lake Avenue, Lakewood: Open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Phone number: 815-459-3025.
• Marengo City Hall, 132 E. Prairie Street, Marengo. Open during working hours only. Phone number 815-568-7112.
• Marengo Park District, 825 Indian Oaks Trail, Marengo. Open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Phone number: 815-568-5126.
• Prairie Grove Village Hall, 3125 Barreville Road, Prairie Grove: Open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Phone number: 815-455-1411.
• McHenry City Hall, 333 S. Green St., McHenry: Open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Phone number: 815-363-2100.
• McHenry Township, 3703 N. Richmond Road, Johnsburg: Open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Phone number: 815-385-5605. Contact Debbie Macrito (during business hours) if center is needed after 4:30 p.m.
• Port Barrington Community Room, 75 S. Circle Avenue, Port Barrington: During working hours only. Phone number: 847-639-7595.
• Woodstock Public Library, 414 W. Judd, Woodstock: Open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday (not open until noon on first Friday of the month).
• McHenry County Judicial Center, 2200 N. Seminary Avenue, Woodstock: Open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday. Phone number: 815-334-4000.

Updates on the heat wave can be found on the National Weather Service website.