How to Stay Cool Through the Heat Wave

It’s gonna be a hot one this week, folks, so be careful.

The National Weather Service is predicting temperatures in the 90s today, but with the humidity, it’s going to feel like 100 or 110. (They call that the “heat index” – essentially, a temperature reading that combines heat and humidity, and tells you how hot it truly feels.)

And it’s not expected to let up before Sunday. If you plan to be outside for any length of time, you’re going to want to keep cool. Here are a few tips from the Centers for Disease Control:

1. Drink plenty of fluids. This one’s kind of obvious, but you’d be surprised how easy it is to forget. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty, and avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. Water is your best bet, so drink plenty.

2. Stay indoors as much as you can. People lived on this planet for thousands of years without air conditioning, but luckily you don’t have to. If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, find a place that does. (See a list of cooling centers at the end of this article.)

3. If you must go outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Wear hats and sunglasses, and for pity’s sake, wear sunscreen. Seriously.

4. Pace yourself. Schedule outdoor activities during cooler times of day, like early morning and evening. Take frequent breaks, and find a shady place. If you find yourself getting lightheaded and weak, stop what you’re doing immediately and find a cool place to rest.

Of course, don’t leave children or pets in cars. Keep your ear to the news for heat advisories. (Hint: there’s one going on now, until 8 p.m. tonight.) Check on people you know who might need help. We’re all in this together.

If you need a place to keep cool, here are some in Montgomery:

• Montgomery Police Station, 10 Civic Center Avenue, open 24 hours a day.
• Montgomery Village Hall, 200 N. River Street, open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Oswegoland Park District’s Civic Center, 5 Ashlawn Avenue, 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday though Thursday; 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m. to noon Saturday.

Check the attached PDF for more cooling centers in Kendall County. Take care of yourself, and stay cool.