The National Weather Service has forecast heat index readings above 100 degrees next week, Monday, June 29th, through Thursday, July 2nd. As a result, the Knox County Emergency Management Agency will monitor local weather conditions, and the following locations will be available as cooling centers next week.
- Knox County YMCA – 1324 W. Carl Sandburg Dr. (Monday through Thursday 5 am to 9 pm, Friday 5 am to 8 pm)
- Knox County Housing Authority Low Barrier Shelter – 525/527 Iowa Court (24 hours, 7 days per week)
- Galesburg Public Library – 264 W. Main Street
- Monday, 9am-8pm
- Tuesday, 9am-8pm
- Wednesday, 9am-5pm
- Thursday, 9am-8pm
- Friday, 9am-5pm
- Saturday, 9am-5pm
- Williamsfield Fire Station – E. Gale St./N. Chicago St. (Monday through Friday, open 24 hours)
- Oneida Fire Station – 210 N. Sage St. (Monday through Thursday, open 24 hours)
- Wataga Fire Station – 310 Willard St. (Monday through Thursday, open 24 hours)
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 illness 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***
