Dear Neighbors,
Due to smoke from Canadian wildfires, the National Weather Service in Chicago, along with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, has issued an Air Quality Alert for the City of Chicago and Cook County, which will be in effect through today, Thursday, July 16th. The Air Quality is unhealthy for all groups, ranking as level 3-of-5. Those with respiratory conditions, babies and children, those who are pregnant, elderly and or pre-existing diseases or conditions, should take particular care!
To stay safe, please take the following precautions:
Stay indoors if you can! If you have to be outside, stay outside as little possible, and wear a mask.
When inside, keep your doors and windows closed for better air quality.
Wear loose and light clothing––it’s still hot out!
Check in on your neighbors!
The health effects while inhaling wildfire smoke can include the following:
Common Symptoms: Scratchy throat, coughing, phlegm, wheezing, difficulty breathing (not breathing comfortably), headaches, sinus irritation, watery or stinging eyes, fatigue and dizziness.
Severe Symptoms: Chest pain, difficulty breathing (to gasping), heart racing (irregular heartbeat), sudden dizziness and weakness, severe fatigue and fainting.
Along with this alert, the temperature outside is still hot! Be sure to be drinking plenty of water, today and throughout the week.
If your home is dangerously hot, call 3-1-1 or visit 311.chicago.gov:
To find the location of the nearest City Cooling Center
To request a senior well-being check
To report a violation of the cooling requirement
The closest cooling center to the 40th Ward is the North Area Center located at 845 W. Wilson Ave and will be open from Monday-Friday, 9am to 5pm.
For alerts, weather conditions, safety and preparedness tips, cooling center locations, and more, residents are encouraged to download the Chicago OEMC App, or visit the website at Chicago.gov/OEMC.
If you start experiencing symptoms of Heat Exhaustion (heavy sweating, clammy skin, fast & weak pulse, muscle cramps, tiredness or weakness, dizziness, headache, and/or fainting) move to a cool place, put cool wet cloths on your head and body, and slowly sip water. Get medical attention right away if you are throwing up, your symptoms get worse, or if they last longer than 1 hour.
If you start experiencing symptoms of Heat Stroke (103°F or higher body temperature, hot, red, dry or damp skin, fast & strong pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and/or losing consciousness) call 911 immediately.
Stay safe out there!
Yours in Service and Community,
Alderperson Andre Vasquez – 40th Ward
5620 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60659
Phone: 773-654-1867
Website: 40thward.org
Email: [email protected]
