Beware the Dangerous Heat in Peoria

The forecasted temperatures today are high enough to warrant a heat advisory, which indicates that air temperatures will be over 100 degrees Fehrenheit, and the heat index will be over 105 degrees. This heat can spell danger for the elderly, children, pets, and anyone outdoors or trapped in a vehicle.

Some local sources have compiled some good tips for staying cool and safe in this heat. But of course the most important tips are simple: don't go outside unless you have to, and be sure to drink plenty of water.

The Red Cross of Central Illinois provides the following tips for preventing heat stroke:

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• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing that will reflect some of the sun’s energy. It’s also a good idea to wear hats or use an umbrella.
• Drink lots of water. Carry water or juice and drink continuously, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid foods high in protein, which increase metabolic heat.
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest period of the day (usually between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.).
• Take regular breaks when you are engaged in physical activity on warm days. Take time out to find a cool place. If you recognize that you are showing signs of a heat-related illness, stop activity and find a cool 
  place.
• Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  

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CiProud.com reports that the Salvation Army has opened a cooling station in downtown Peoria:

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The cooling center will be located at the Sylvia Fites Center in downtown Peoria. Anyone can stop by from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. for air conditioning and a meal. The Salvation Army says it's prepared for a good-sized crowd. 

The Sylvia Fites Center is located at 414 North East Jefferson in Peoria. For more information, call 309-655-7272.

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WEEK and WHOI provide the following narrative about surviving the sweltering heat:

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...staying cool and hydrated is key.

 "We'll be spraying ourselves with a hose," said Steve McIntire, a local construction worker.

Construction workers like him constantly keep cold water and drinks handy in this heat.

"It's expected, so we make sure we have enough water, make sure we have the right clothing on, make sure we have enough sunscreen  on," said Ben Tellefson, an IDOT Resident Engineer working on Route 8 construction in Washington. "It's been warm all year, so it's not coming out of nowhere."

Knowing how to handle this hot spell should be something on everyone's minds.

"Those who need to take extra care? People working outside, of course, but also the very young, the very old, and those on medication. 

Medical experts can't stress enough to take the proper steps to stay cool or face illness like heat stroke.

"That's where you get altered mental status, your  temperatures skyrockets, and you're in trouble unless you get some help quickly."

Dr. Paul Matthews, an attending physician at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, says heat stroke can cause brain damage, even death.

He advises upping your liquid intake to eight to ten cups a day and being aware of how you feel.

Advice that could help keep you alive, wherever you are this summer.

Dr. Matthews says your body will give you warning signs.

He says sweating is normal.

It's when you stop sweating or start feeling cold that you should get out of the sun and seek medical attention.