From the Village of Oak Park:
With high temperatures expected to persist through much of the week, public health officials are advising 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.
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. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Relief from the heat also can be found during regular hours at all Oak Park Public Library branches.
Residents 60 years old and older can visit Oak Park Township Senior Services, 130 S. Oak Park Ave., from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Monday through Friday – call 708.383.4806 if transportation is needed.
For more information on dealing with the heat, e-mail health@oak-park.us or check out information posted by the American Red Cross.
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