How to keep yourself -- and your furry friends -- safe amid Central Illinois' heatwave
Share and Follow


DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — Medical professionals and animal shelters are providing tips to keep yourself and your pets safe during this heat wave, as temperatures will remain above 90°F through the end of the week.

OSF Healthcare Spokesperson Tim Ditman said sunscreen and water are essentials when you step outside. Ditman also said it’s important to know your own limits in this oppressive heat. 

“If you start to feel dehydrated, exhausted, that’s the time to take a break,” said Ditman. “Have a buddy with you; make sure you’re checking in on your friend and your friend is checking in on you.”

But, humans aren’t the only ones who need help handling the heat. 

Pavement can reach up to 125°F. At that temperature, dog paws can burn in only 60 seconds. To avoid these burns, either use dog boots or walk your dog in the early morning and late evening. 

Dogs experience heat exhaustion too. Vermilion County Animal Shelter Programs Manager Kate Suchodolski said there are signs to look for.

“Dizziness, excessive panting, drooling,” Suchodolski said. “Just make sure that you’re getting your dog to a vet right away if you see any of those symptoms.”

Suchodolski said a dip in a cold pool always helps dogs cool off too.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like

Burke County Embezzlement Case Sees Landmark RICO Charges

BURKE COUNTY, Ga. () – The Burke County Sheriff’s Office arrested Susan Jennifer…

What Were the Vibrant Rainbow Clouds Over Central Florida?

ORLANDO, Fla. – Several communities that saw storms Tuesday night caught a…

“Tennessee Anticipates Challenges with Possible K-12 Federal Funding Reductions”

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — A new task force formed to prepare the…

Screwworm closer to US border, threatening Texas cattle industry

McALLEN, Texas (Border Report) — The deadly parasitic New World screwworm has…

'We know where you all live': Man charged after threatening 4 Treasure Island commissioners

TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. (WFLA) — An Indian Rocks Beach resident has been…

How Might the Reduced Chatham Area Transit Millage Rate Affect Services?

SAVANNAH, Ga. () — The Chatham County Board of Commissioners adopted a…

Florida Attorney General Insists Orange County Must Transport Immigrants to ICE Centers

ORLANDO, Fla. – Florida’s Attorney General is warning Orange County leaders: sign…

Tsunami Warnings Issued Following Earthquake Near Russia: Key Information to Stay Informed

HONOLULU – A powerful earthquake that struck off the coast of Russia…