The Knox County Health Department and Knox County Emergency Management Agency are monitoring local conditions to identify if the need arises for a formal cooling center to be opened over the next several days. Temperatures starting Wednesday are forecast to be 97, Wednesday at 101, and Friday at 104 with high humidity. The combination of heat and humidity could be dangerous for those spending too much time outdoors. At-risk populations include the elderly and the very young who are most susceptible to heat and heat-related illnesses. Additionally, pets should have plenty of water and shade to get out of the hot sun.
Residents can visit the following locations that are set up as temporary cooling centers:
- Galesburg
- Public Safety Building – 150 South Broad Street (24 hrs)
- YMCA – 1324 W. Carl Sandburg Dr (5 am to 9 pm)
- Knoxville – 137 N Public Sq, Knoxville (Can be opened upon request. Contact number will be on the front entry door.)
- East Galesburg – Village Hall – 100 E First St, East Galesburg (8 am – 5 pm)
- Oneida Fire Station – 210 Sage St, Oneida (8 am – 8 pm)
- Wataga Fire Station – 310 W Willard St, Wataga (8 am – 8 pm)
Should more locations become available, this list will be updated. Please be sure to follow the KCEMA Facebook page for updates.
Heat-related illnesses can cause serious injury and even death if unattended. Signs of heat-related illnesses include nausea, dizziness, flushed or pale skin, heavy sweating, and headaches. Persons with heat-related illnesses should be moved to a cool place, given cool water to drink, and ice packs or cool wet cloths should be applied to the skin. If a victim refuses water, vomits, or loses consciousness, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Tips for staying cool include:
- Prepare. Discuss heat safety precautions with members of your household. Have a plan for what to do if the power goes out.
- Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella when in the sun.
- Stay hydrated. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
- Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
- Slow down and avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m. Take frequent breaks.
- Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
***Courtesy of the City of Galesburg***
