DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Heat indices could reach into the 100s this week across central Illinois. Dr. Brandon Koser of Decatur Memorial Hospital said the heat can have serious consequences.
Koser said residents need to pay attention to their bodies during the heat.
"Signs of exhaustion, confusion, actually lack of sweating is probably one of the later stages, and would be one of the signs the heat exhaustion has gone too far and you're probably experiencing heat stroke at that point," Koser said.
Koser recommended drinking water and taking breaks in the shade.
The danger also extends to vehicles. Chloe Burke, a representative with Kids and Car Safety, said children can end up in hot cars in ways parents may not expect.
"[In] 25% of the cases we collect, the children get into the vehicle on their own," she said.
She urged parents to check their vehicles after every trip.
"After every trip, look before you lock. Check the third row, check the floorboards, check the trunk, and then lock your doors behind you," she said.
Koser said the danger inside a vehicle escalates quickly.
"In a very short period of time, when they're exposed to it, cars can overheat. So children, elderly, pets are very susceptible to, unfortunately, dying, and we see it every year," Koser said.
According to Kids and Car Safety, 86% of children who die in hot cars are three years old or younger.
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