CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — This week, extremely high temperatures are expected to affect Central Illinois. The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District is advising residents to be on the lookout for symptoms of heat-related illnesses and take precautions to stay safe along with protecting their loved ones.

Heat-related illnesses can vary from mild heat exhaustion to severe heat stroke, which is life-threatening. These conditions occur when the body is unable to regulate its temperature effectively and fails to cool down. If the body reaches a temperature of 106 degrees or higher for 10 to 15 minutes, it may result in death or irreversible damage.

The CUPHD warns that symptoms indicating heat-related illness include a body temperature of 103 degrees or more, skin that is red, hot, and dry without sweating, a quick and strong pulse, severe headache, dizziness or confusion, and nausea.

To avoid heat-related illness, CUPHD said that it’s important to follow these steps:

• Stay hydrated
  • Drink 48 to 64 ounces of cool, non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages daily
• Limit activity during peak heat
  • Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day. If you absolutely must be outside, take breaks often in the shade or a cool environment
• Wear light-colored, lightweight clothing
  • This help your body stay cooler
• Cool down when overheated
  • Take a cool shower if you begin to overheat
• Seek air-conditioned spaces
  • If your home is not air-conditioned, visit a mall, library, grocery store, or other public space to cool off

The health district is also reminding community members to never leave children, older adults, or pets in a parked car because temperatures can rise quickly.

For more information about the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, or tips to avoid it, visit the Champaign County EMA’s website.