Local Agencies Warn St. Charles Residents About Heat-Related Dangers

Local emergency preparedness and health agencies are warning residents about the possible high temperatures expected in the area Tuesday and Wednesday.The concern is particularly great for the elderly and those who will be outside for long periods of time, according Paul Bumba, emergency preparedness coordinator for the City of St. Charles.Make St. Charles Patch a part of your day. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.The city is ready to open cooling centers if needed, according to information released Tuesday by Bumba and city officials.Meteorologists forecast temperatures in the St. Charles area to rise into the 90s on Tuesday and Wednesday; however, a long-term heatwave is not expected.The National Weather Service is predicting that it could climb to the upper 90s Tuesday and could reach a heat index of more than 100 degrees, according to the Kane County Health Department.Such conditions could cause illness for those who are exposed for long periods or those who have health conditions that make them particularly vulnerable.“The effects of extreme heat conditions on the human body are cumulative and can lead to variety of health complications, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” said Paul Kuehnert, executive director of the Health Department in a statement released Tuesday. “We are urging people to display caution as the temperatures rise and to follow a few simple tips to protect themselves. The health department recommends avoiding the following activities: Do not direct fans toward yourself in rooms hotter than 90 degrees; do not leave infants, children and pets in parked cars; do not consume alcohol to stay cool; do not eat heavy or hot foods or wear heavy, dark clothing. The city of St. Charles advises people to check on the elderly and shut-ins they know during the times of extreme heat.Tips for staying cool from the county health department include:Go to a public air-conditioned environment, such as libraries, malls or other public buildings.Avoid hot foods and heavy meals they add heat to your body. Drink plenty of fluids and replace salts and minerals in your body. Do not take salt tablets unless under medical supervision.Dress infants and children in cool, loose clothing and shade their heads and faces with hats or umbrellas.Limit sun exposure during mid-day hours and in places of potential severe exposure such as beaches. Provide plenty of fresh water for your pets, and leave the water in a shady area.