An excessive heat warning is in effect starting at 10 a.m. Friday until 8 p.m. Saturday.

According to the National Weather Service, high temperatures will climb into the lower to middle 90s over the next few days, and heat index values will peak at around 110 degrees both days.

An excessive heat warning means that a “prolonged period of heat will occur,” according to the NWS. “The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely.”

Cameron Craig, Eastern’s climatologist, said the illnesses include heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The key to staying safe, he said, is to stay cool and drink plenty of water.

“Not soda, not diet coke or alcohol, it has to be water. It’s necessary fighting against heat issues in the atmosphere.”

Craig said the humidity coupled with high temperatures puts a lot of stress on the human body.

To avoid serious illness, Craig said to stay indoors, preferably in air conditioned rooms or places and to check up on the elderly, especially those who do not have air conditioning, and children under the age of six.

Craig also said pets and children should never be left alone in a vehicle, even if the windows are rolled down.

“In a car temperature spikes very quickly so animals and kids should not be left in a car,” he said. “Regardless of windows open it gets extremely hot.”

The NWS said to take precaution when working or spending time outside and to wear light-weight and loose fitting clothing.

Individuals should also know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, warning signs for heat stroke include:

• High body temperature (103 degrees or higher)
• Hot, red, dry or damp skin
• Fast, strong pulse
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Losing consciousness (passing out)

If an individual experiences these symptoms, the CDC recommends calling 911, moving the person to a cooler place and help lower the person’s temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath.

Signs for heat exhaustion include:

• Heavy sweating
• Cold, pales and clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fainting

If someone experiences the symptoms, they should be moved to a cool place and take a cool bath. If symptoms get worse, call 911, according to the CDC.

Analicia Haynes can be reached at 581-2812 or achaynes@eiu.edu.