Cook County is opening cooling centers as heat indices as high as 100 degrees are forecast for the region Wednesday and Thursday.

Cooling centers will be open 24 hours at the county’s Skokie, Maywood and Markham courthouses from Wednesday, July 23, at 8 a.m. through Friday, July 25, at 5 p.m. Residents without adequate access to air conditioning are advised to seek respite at a cooling center. 

Palos Park Police Commissioner Dan Polk said anyone concerned about a homebound neighbor or senior should call 708-448-2191. The village will conduct a well-being check.

Polk said officers also will check on seniors who are part of the village’s You Are Not Alone program.

The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security offers the following tips to stay safe during extreme heat:

  • Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol and sugary drinks.
  • Stay in the shade or indoors as much as possible.
  • If working outside, take frequent breaks, preferably in an air-conditioned space.
  • Bring pets indoors and ensure they have plenty of water.
  • Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle.

If you must work or spend extended time outdoors, watch for signs of heatstroke, a condition in which the body loses its ability to regulate temperature. Symptoms include:

  • An extremely high body temperature (103 degrees or above)
  • Dizziness and nausea
  • A throbbing headache and a rapid, strong pulse
  • Skin that is red, hot and dry

A list of cooling centers and their hours of operation is available at: Cooling Centers – Cook County

Polk said extreme heat can affect anyone’s health, but the risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and those working or exercising outdoors.

If needed, the Village of Palos Park’s cooling center will be located at the Kaptur Center, 8999 W. 123rd St.

“During a severe heat wave warning, it is important for everyone to take precautions to remain healthy and safe. But also check on your neighbors, including seniors to ensure they are ok. Seniors are often the most impacted by these severe heat waves,” interim Orland Fire Chief John Purtill said.

“Also check on children and ensure they are drinking a lot of water and remain in the shade or indoors, and also check on your pets. Do not leave anyone, child or adult or a pet in a vehicle.”

Don’t Forget Pets

The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control urges pet owners to take special precautions during extreme heat.

Here are their top tips:

  • Don’t leave pets in hot cars. Even with windows down, interior temperatures can rise 15 degrees higher than outside. Illinois law prohibits leaving a dog in a car when the temperature is above 78 degrees.
  • Keep pets cool outdoors. Pets can become dehydrated quickly. Always provide water and shade, and monitor them closely. Animals with short or light-colored coats are more vulnerable to sunburn, especially on their noses.
  • Consider a trim—not a shave. If your dog has a thick coat, a summer trim may help. Never shave a dog, as their coat protects against both heat and sunburn.
  • Protect paw pads. Asphalt and sidewalks can become dangerously hot. Walk dogs on grass, dirt or gravel when possible, and avoid paved surfaces during peak heat.
  • Keep indoor temperatures comfortable. Ensure pets have access to water and a cool area. Cats may seek out unusual cool spots like bathtubs or closets—this is normal behavior.
  • Secure window screens. Before opening windows, make sure screens are in place and tightly secured. Curious cats can fall out of unscreened windows.
  • Know the signs of heatstroke. Symptoms include fatigue, excessive panting, disorientation, lethargy, seizures and collapse. If your pet shows any of these signs, seek veterinary help immediately.