Temps Set to Top 100, How to Handle the Heat Advisory

It's gonna be a hot one. 

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory, for Thursday, June 29. Temperatures are expected to reach 100 to 105 degrees. The heat index could boost things up to the 105 to 110 degree range. 

Prolonged exposure to the heat may be dangerous if proper precautions aren't taken. The National Weather Service suggests taking the following steps:

• If you work or spend time outside, when possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
• Stay out of the sun
• Check up on relatives and neighbors
• Don't leave children and pets unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Know these heat disorder symptoms (and how to treat them):

• SUNBURN: Redness and pain. In severe cases swelling of skin, blisters, fever, headaches. First aid: Ointments for mild cases if blisters appear and do not break. If breaking occurs, apply dry sterile dressing. Serious, extensive cases should be seen by physician.

• HEAT CRAMPS: Painful spasms usually in muscles of legs and abdomen possible. Heavy sweating. First aid: Firm pressure on cramping muscles, or gentle massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use.

• HEAT EXHAUSTION: Heavy sweating, weakness, skin cold, pale and clammy. Pulse thready. Normal temperature possible. Fainting and vomiting. First aid: Get victim out of sun. Lay down and loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air conditioned room. Sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.

• HEAT STROKE (or sunstroke): High body temperature (106 degrees or higher). Hot dry skin. Rapid and strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness. First aid: Move the victim to a cooler environment. Reduce body temperature with cold bath or sponging. Use extreme caution. Remove clothing, use fans and air conditioners. If temperature rises again, repeat process. Do not give fluids. Persons on salt restrictive diets should consult a physician before increasing their salt intake.

Need a place to stay cool?

Chicago Heights has a few places ideal for keeping cool.

• , 425 S. Halsted St., Chicago Heights. Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
• , 25 W 15th St., Chicago Heights. Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Remember to check on your neighbors, especially the elderly or those without air conditioning. 

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has also declared an air quality alert for Thursday. Sensitive groups like young children, the elderly and those with respiratory problems are recommended to stay inside. 

-Chicago Heights Patch editor Christopher Paicely contributed to this report