Extreme Heat
The human body dissipates heat by varying the rate and depth of blood circulation, by losing water through the skin and sweat glands, and (as the last extremity is reached) by panting when blood is heated above 98.6 degrees. The skin handles about 90 percent of the body’s heat dissipating function. However, sweating does not cool the body unless the water is evaporated. Evaporation is a cooling process.
On hot days where the temperature is above 90?F and the relative humidity is high, evaporation slows. The body attempts to do everything it can to maintain 98.6?F inside. The heart is pumping a torrent of blood through dilated circulatory vessels; the sweat glands are pouring liquid, including essential dissolved chemicals like sodium and chloride, onto the surface of the skin.
Heat disorders generally have to do with a reduction or collapse of the body’s ability to shed heat by circulatory changes and sweating, or a chemical (salt) imbalance caused by too much sweating. When heat gain exceeds the level the body can remove, or when the body cannot compensate for fluids and salt lost through perspiration, the temperature of the body’s inner core begins to rise and heat-related illness may develop.
Other factors:
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Cities can add to the hazard. Stagnant air conditions trap pollutants in urban areas and add the stresses of severe pollution to the already dangerous stresses of hot weather. Temperatures over large paved areas are much warmer than that of parks and grassy areas.
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Sunburn can significantly retard the skin’s ability to shed excess heat.
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People on certain medication or drugs (such as tranquilizers and anticholinergics) and people overweight or with an alcohol problem are particularly susceptible.
What should one do to prevent heat disorders:
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Slow down. Reduce, reschedule or eliminate strenuous activity.
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Dress for the summer. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
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Drink plenty of water.
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Do not get too much sun.
Heat index combines the effects of high temperature and relative humidity. Using the current temperature and relative humidity, calculate the heat index using the chart provided. Exposure to full sun can increase these values by up to 15 degrees. When the NWS is expecting the heat index to exceed 105 degrees, this will be headlined in the forecast. At Heat Indices above 105 degrees, possible heat disorders include heat cramps or heat exhaustion. Heatstroke is possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity.
2-1-1 is a free, confidential, 24/7 helpline that connects individuals to local health and human services. Call specialists help match callers with vital community resources, including food assistance, shelter, rent and utility relief, mental health support, and employment services.
How to Access 2-1-1 in Huntley, IL
Residents of Huntley (in McHenry and Kane counties) have multiple ways to access these essential community services:
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By Phone: Dial 2-1-1 directly from your phone to speak with a highly trained resource specialist.
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By Text: Text your zip code to 898-211 to start a confidential text conversation.
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Online Search: Visit the 2-1-1 Illinois or 2-1-1 for Health and Human Services platforms to search for local agencies and resources.
***CLICK THESE LINKS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT AVAILABLE SERVICES***
https://www.huntley.il.us/departments/police/severe_weather_safety.php
https://keepcool.illinois.gov/