The Illinois Region, as well as millions of people across the U.S. are facing extreme heat this week as record-breaking high temperatures scorch the country.

Experts are warning that much of the U.S. could be facing hotter than normal conditions this summer as the climate crisis drives higher temperatures. 2023 was the hottest year on record, and scientists warn that 2024 could break records for a second year in a row. Unusually hot days and heat waves are both a natural part of our weather patterns, however, since the 1960s, heat waves have become more frequent and intense, and are lasting longer in the U.S.

HEAT SAFETY Heat-related deaths and illnesses can be prevented, but extreme heat still claims the lives of people in this country every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As heat waves become more common and last longer, heat-related deaths are also on the rise with some 2,300 occurring in 2023 alone.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO The American Red Cross recommends taking three steps to stay safe in extreme heat: slow down, stay hydrated and spend time indoors.

• Slow down by postponing or limiting outdoor activities. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to fresh water and shade.
• Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, shopping mall or public cooling center. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and don’t have air conditioning.

Hot weather can prove dangerous for your furry friends. Check out these steps you can take to help keep your pets safe during extreme heat.

During hot weather, people might become ill from heat-related conditions and it’s critical to act fast. Heat illness can be prevented, and the Red Cross recommends learning the warning signs and how to help so you can react quickly.

Heat can make anyone ill, but older adults, the very young, pregnant women and those with chronic medical conditions are more at risk. People who work outdoors, have limited personal resources and live in places that lack green spaces are also at higher risk.

Heat cramps are an early sign of trouble and include heavy sweating with muscle pains or spasms. To help, move the person to a cooler place and encourage them to drink water. Get medical help if symptoms last longer than an hour or if the person has heart problems.

Heat exhaustion is a more severe condition signaled by cool, pale and clammy skin; a fast or weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; tiredness or weakness; or a headache, dizziness or passing out. To help, move the person to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing, encourage them to sip water slowly. Use wet cloths, misting or fanning to help cool them off. Get medical help right away if symptoms get worse or last longer than an hour, or if the person begins vomiting or acting confused.

Heat stroke is a deadly condition that requires immediate medical help. Symptoms include a high body temperature; hot, red, dry or damp skin; a fast or strong pulse; a headache or dizziness; or nausea, confusion and passing out. Call 911 right away if you think someone may have heat stroke. Then move the person to a cool place, and use wet cloths, misting or fanning to help cool them off. Do not give the person anything to drink.

Download the free Emergency app for critical heat safety information and real-time weather alerts and the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

HOME FIRE RESPONSE Red Cross volunteers responded to five home fires in Chillicothe, Fisher, Bath, Pekin and Lincoln and provided assistance to 14 people, including 3 children, by supplying them with basic items to meet immediate needs after a fire, and additional support in the form of health and mental health services and one-on-one support.

If you or someone you know needs assistance after a home fire or local disaster, please call 1-800 Red Cross.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.