Heeding Heat Advisory in Skokie

Love it or hate it, one thing is for sure: It's hot outside.

A heat advisory is in effect, with temperatures expected to reach into the high 90s most of this week. Skokie residents are urged to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, check in with their friends and families, and watch out for their pets.

While some swelter, other people really love this weather.

"Heat is good. I love this heat. I like hot weather," said Suzie Yokana of Gabby Hair Salon. "To me, it doesn't matter. [It's] better than snow."

Robert Kronenberg of AOK Gourmet agrees. "I enjoy the heat, so I'm thriving," he said. "We wait all year for this...we can't complain."

Kronenberg cites trips to the lake and outdoor concerts as perks of the summer weather.

Still, the heat can be a drain on local businesses.

Eilene Charak at Hadassah House Thrift Shop is keeping cool. "We have air conditioning, so we're fine. We just stay inside all day," she said of plans to escape the heat.

But Charak has noticed that business is slow. "People aren't going out. And they shouldn't be going out, especially older people," she noted.

At the McDonald's on Dempster Street, the management has moved some drive-through operations outside. Alfredo Patino stands outside next to the drive-through speaker with an electronic clipboard.

"We're taking orders outside; we figure it's gonna be hot," said Patino, serving a long line of customers sitting with their vehicle's windows rolled down.

When temperatures climb this high, they're not just potentially uncomfortable, they're potentially dangerous. The chance of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke are much higher.

The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention has tips for staying safe in the heat and the Village of Skokie has published recommendations online from its health department.

 A directory of cooling centers, where residents can go to take advantage of air conditioning during the sweltering days, can also be found on the village's website. Even a relatively short period in air conditioning can help lower body temperature, according to experts.

Ann Tennes, the village's spokeswoman, said that in addition to the website, the Skokie Department of Human Services was making "check-in" calls to house-bound residents to make sure they're faring well.

Children and the elderly are particularly at risk of heat-related ailments, but everyone can benefit from taking precautions.

"Keep hydrated, stay out of the direct sun, no strenuous exercise," said Florence Rydahl of Relief Medical Services. "Be calm and don't exercise."

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