With the highest temperatures of the season typically coming in July and August, public health officials urge residents to protect themselves and their loved ones from the sometimes severe consequences of extreme heat.
While everyone is susceptible to heat-related illnesses, the elderly and individuals with chronic diseases are at greater risk.
On excessively hot days, avoid strenuous activity and stay inside whenever possible. And be sure to check on relatives, neighbors and friends.
Cooling centers open
Residents who don’t have access to air conditioning are encouraged to take advantage of Oak Park’s free cooling centers at Rush Oak Park Hospital, 520 S. Maple Ave., and West Suburban Medical Center, 3 Erie Court. When triggered by extreme temperatures, the centers are open seven days a week — 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. at West Suburban and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Rush.
Hours may be extended when weather conditions warrant.
To find out if a cooling center is open after hours, call West Suburban Hospital at 708.763.6747 or Rush Oak Park Hospital at 708.660.6000. If transportation is needed, call the Oak Park Police Department’s non-emergency number 708.386.3800.
Village Hall, 123 Madison St., also is a cooling center from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Residents 60 years old and older also can visit Oak Park Township Senior Services, 130 S. Oak Park Ave., from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday — call 708.383.8060 if transportation is needed.
For more information on dealing with the heat, email health@oak-park.us.