Heat Watch Information from the City of Evanston

From the city of Evanston:

With rising temperatures and the heat index reaching 90ºF the Evanston Health Department has declared a Heat Watch and urges all residents to take preventive actions during this extremely hot weather to avoid heat-related illness, such as heat-stroke.

As part of the Heat Emergency, residents are also encouraged to take advantage of cooling centers across the city. Those without air conditioning may visit the following public cooling centers in Evanston:
• Chandler-Newberger Center at 1028 Central St. open until 9 p.m.
• Ecology Center at 2024 McCormick Blvd. open until 5 p.m.
• Fleetwood-Jourdain Center at 1655 Foster St. open unttil 9 p.m.
• Noyes Cultural Arts Center at 927 Noyes St. open until 7 p.m.
• Levy Senior Center at 300 Dodge Ave. open until 9 p.m.
• Robert Crown Center at 1701 Main St. open until midnight

The Evanston Health Department recommends the following to prevent heat related illnesses:
• Drink lots of water, sports beverages or natural juices.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine and high salt intake;
• Stay in a cool, shaded areas and keep the blinds drawn or lights down.
• Avoid excessive exposure to the sun;
• Use air conditioners or fans; avoid excessive exposure to heat in unventilated areas;
• Reduce physical activity;
• Take cool baths or showers and use cool towels;
• Wear loose, light cotton clothing and a breathable hat;
• Eat light meals; Avoid eating heavy meals and using the oven;
• Do not sit, or let anyone sit in a hot car, even for a few minutes;

REMEMBER TO CHECK ON PEOPLE AT RISK for heat related illness, especially elderly individuals.

A heat watch is in effect when the weather services predicts a heat index of 90 and is lifted when it lowers below 90.
For more information contact the Evanston’s 311 Service Center, or visit www.cityofevanston.org.