The Knox County Emergency Management Agency is monitoring local conditions over the next several days. Temperatures starting Sunday will reach dangerous levels with humidity reaching 83%. Dangerously hot conditions will persist through early next week, with afternoon heat indices up to 110 degrees likely.
The combination of heat and humidity can 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 Library – 264 W Main St (Sunday: closed, Monday: 9am-8pm)
Knox County YMCA – 1324 W Carl Sandburg Dr (Sunday: 10am-5pm)
Knox County Housing Authority – 525/527 Iowa Ct (Daily: 6pm-7am)
WILLIAMSFIELD
Williamsfield Fire Station – E. Gale St/ N Chicago St (Sunday – Tuesday: open 24 hours)
ONEIDA
Oneida Fire Station – 210 N Sage St (Sunday – Tuesday: open 24 hours)
WATAGA
Wataga Fire Station – 310 W Willard St (Sunday – Tuesday: open 24 hours)
Should more locations become available, this list will be updated. Please 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 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.