Will County Gazette

Park Forest officials have issued a warning to residents as a heatwave is expected to bring temperatures into the mid-90s, with heat indices ranging from 103 to 107 degrees. The Village has activated cooling centers to provide relief during this period of extreme heat.

The Park Forest Police Department at 200 Lakewood Boulevard will operate as a cooling center around the clock. Village Hall, located at 350 Victory Drive, will also serve as a cooling center during its regular business hours from Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thursday when it will be closed for the Juneteenth holiday.

Deputy Fire Chief Mark Cotrano highlighted the need for community vigilance, particularly towards the elderly who are more susceptible to heat-related health issues. “Older people are more likely to experience heat-related health problems than younger people because their bodies have more difficulty regulating temperature,” Cotrano stated. He stressed the importance of seeking quick relief from overheating to prevent serious health complications.

Children are also at risk during high temperatures. Cotrano advised parents to ensure their children remain hydrated and limit sun exposure while outdoors.

Residents should be aware of symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, fatigue, and weakness associated with heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is considered a medical emergency and can result in confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and an elevated core body temperature above 104 degrees.

Extreme heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities in the United States, surpassing hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises checking on vulnerable individuals like elderly relatives and neighbors twice daily during extreme heat conditions.

Cotrano urged residents to minimize outdoor activities when possible and emphasized calling 911 if a medical emergency arises. “Heat waves are not just uncomfortable—they’re dangerous,” he said. “We’re asking the community to take this seriously and help keep everyone safe.”