A Nationally Accredited Health Department Since 2017

Extreme Heat

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is expected in Winnebago County on Monday, July 28. When heat is this extreme, the risk of severe heat illness and death from heat are more likely.

Stay Safe In Extreme Heat

  1. Drink plenty of water. Do not wait until you are thirsty. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks.
  2. Stay cool in an air-conditioned area.
    1. If you do not have an air conditioner, visit someplace with air conditioning for at least a few hours to help relieve the heats impact on your body. See below for “Places To Go To Get Cool.”
    2. Electric fans will NOT prevent heat-related illness when temperatures are in the high 90s or above.
  3. Take a cold shower or bath.
  4. Never leave anyone including pets in a closed, parked vehicle.
  5. Take extra caution if you are participating in outdoor activities, including events like IRONMAN.

Places To Go To Get Cool

Places you may visit with air conditioning include:

      • shopping centers
      • retail stores
      • public libraries
      • public offices
      • a friend with air conditioning
      • cooling centers 

If You Must Be Outside In The Heat

  • Drink plenty of water
  • Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitted clothes
  • Limit your time outdoors, especially midday when the sun is hottest
  • Avoid outdoor activities that take a lot of energy or effort, like exercise
  • Rest often in shady areas or inside in air conditioning

Know The Signs Of Heat-Related Illness

Warning signs of Heat Exhaustion include:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Cold, pale, and clammy skin
  • Fast, weak pulse
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Tiredness or weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Passing out

Warning signs of Heat Stroke include:

  • High body temperature
  • Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
  • Fast, strong pulse
  • Nausea
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Passing out
Heat Exhaustion vs Heat Stroke

Resources For Partner Agencies

Share This Post

More To Explore

mother and father holding and smiling gown at their baby.
Home Page News Header

WInning Start Winnebago

Before, during, and after giving birth, your care continues. Our community cares for all families welcoming home a newborn. Whether this is your first child

Group of 6 women smiling. It's About My Plans, Goals, Life, Future Plans, Life & Goals & Health.
Home Page News Header

My Health, My Future, My Plan

It’s your LIFE, your GOALS, your PLANS, your HEALTH, and YOUR FUTURE. Make sure you get the services you need! Click here to learn more

sleeping baby
Home Page News Header

Need Safe Sleep Supplies?

Did you know that every 3 days a baby in Illinois dies in their sleep? The Winnebago County Health Department (WCHD) is pleased to provide