Excessive Heat

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for our area effective Wednesday, August 23 and Thursday, August 24. Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values of 110 to 115 are expected. Please remember to check on the well being of friends and neighbors during these conditions.

Residents in need of shelter due to extreme heat can call 911 to request sheltering assistance. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. Transportation to a cooling center will be provided if needed.

Cooling Centers

The following cooling centers are available on a daily basis:

• Downers Grove Fire Station 2, 5240 Main St. 630.434.5976; Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., M-F.
• Downers Grove Police Department Lobby, 825 Burlington Ave. 630.434.5600; Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., M-F.
• Downers Grove Public Library, 1050 Curtiss St. 630.960.1200 Hours: M-F 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Sat, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Sun, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• List of cooling centers in DuPage County. Please be sure to call a cooling center before going to one, as some are only open during emergencies, such as large-scale power outages.

Power Outages

Call ComEd to report outages and/or downed power lines at 1-800-EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661).

Sign up for outage alerts on your mobile devices HERE.

Hot Weather Tips 

• Stay in an air-conditioned space at home, the library, the mall, movie theater or at a cooling center.
• Drink lots of water and natural juices. Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and soft drinks.
• Keep shades drawn and blinds closed, but keep windows slightly open.
• Stay out of the sun and avoid going out in the heat.
• Keep electric lights off or turned down.
• Take cool baths or showers.
• Wear loose, light cotton clothing.
• Do not eat heavy meals. Avoid cooking with your oven.
• Avoid or minimize physical exertion.
• Do not sit in a hot car, even for a short time. Never leave a child or pet in a hot car.
• Check on family members, friends and neighbors to make sure they stay cool and safe, especially the very young and the elderly.

For Pets

• Provide water and shelter from the sun at all times.
• Restrict activity during extreme heat.
• Never leave pets in parked vehicles. Even moderate heat rapidly increases and can kill the pet quickly.

Anyone needing assistance during a period of extreme heat should call 9-1-1.

Be Aware of the Signs of Heat Sickness

• Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, light-headedness, headache, cool and clammy skin, heavy perspiration, shallow breathing, muscle tremors and cramping. 
• Additional symptoms for heat stroke, which can be fatal, include severe headache, a red and dry face, skin that is hot to the touch, rapid and shallow breathing, significantly elevated body temperature, weak pulse, changes in consciousness and seizures or cardiac arrhythmias. 

Any person suffering from these symptoms may be in a life-threatening situation and should call 9-1-1 immediately.