Palos Park Police Warn Senior Citizens Of NWS Heat Advisory

PALOS PARK, IL – The Palos Park Police Department is offering to send officers to check on local senior citizens on Saturday, when the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory and the heat index may push 107 degrees.

The NWS has forecasted "dangerously hot and humid conditions as temperatures are expected to reach a high of 93 degrees.

According to police, older residents are the most susceptible to heat-related illnesses or death and that it is critically important to check on seniors, especially those who live alone. Police warn that not only seniors lose their ability to adapt to high temperatures, but certain medications often interfere with the body’s ability to cope with extreme heat.

A heat advisory is issued when there is a heat index of 105 degrees Fahrenheit but less than 115 degrees Fahrenheit for less than three hours per day or nighttime lows above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. An excessive heat warning is issued when the heat index is at least 105 degrees Fahrenheit for more than three hours per day for two consecutive days, or when the heat index is more than 115 degrees Fahrenheit for any period of time.

General symptoms of heat-induced illness include:

• increased body temperature
• extremely hot and dry skin
• strong, rapid pulse rate
• throbbing headache
• dizziness
• vomiting
• nausea

Additionally, seniors should be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat Exhaustion symptoms include:

• heavy sweating
• weakness
• skin cold, pale and clammy
• weak and shallow pulse
• vomiting and fainting possible
• The following are symptoms of Heat Stroke:
• high body temperature (106 degrees or higher)
• skin hot and dry
• rapid and strong pulse
• possible unconsciousness

Police are offering the following tips for seniors dealing with the heat.

• Drink plenty of water. Drink 2-4 cups of fluid per hour. If you are going out, take a water bottle with you. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Eat smaller, lighter meals
• Keep your home cool with air conditioning or a fan. If you don't have air conditioning or a fan, go to a place that does such as your local senior center, mall, library, movie theater, or place of worship.
• Wear loose fitting, lightweight clothing. When outside, wear a hat and sunscreen
• Avoid exercise or exertion, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
• Be aware that some of your medications may cause greater sun sensitivity. Consult your doctor about your medications and the heat.