Aug. 22, 2023 - With temperatures and humidity predicted to push the heat index dangerously high this week, public health officials are advising residents to protect themselves and their loved ones from the sometimes severe consequences of extreme heat.
Excessive heat is forecast for Oak Park and the surrounding area through Thursday, with heat index values expected to rise above 110. Residents are encouraged to check on relatives, friends and neighbors who may be vulnerable to heat-related illnesses or not have access to air conditioning.
All three branches of Oak Park Public Library serve as cooling centers during regular business hours - click here for hours and locations.
The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security also provides an updated list of cooling centers for residents who do not have access to air conditioning - click here to view. For a list of cooling centers in Chicago, click here.
Garbage and recycling collection will begin at 6 a.m. on Wednesday and Thursday to allow crews to make their regularly scheduled rounds before the hottest part of the day.
Residents looking for ways to help neighbors and outdoor workers during this excessive heat event can consider putting out a hydration station for kids walking to and from school, postal workers and others who will be outside.
While everyone is susceptible to heat-related illnesses, infants and young children, the elderly, people with mental illness and the physically ill, particularly those with heart disease or high blood pressure, are at greater risk.
To avoid overheating, Oak Park health officials recommend trying to stay out of the sun, wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, drinking water often and avoiding strenuous outdoors activities.
Learn more about staying safe as temperatures soar at www.ready.gov/heat. For the latest updates from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/lot.
For more information, contact the Oak Park Health Department at health@oak-park.us or 708.358.5480.
if you are looking for ways to help neighbors and outdoor workers during this excessive heat event, consider putting out a “hydration station” for kids walking to and from school, postal workers and others who will be outside