As the region braces for a dangerous heat wave this weekend, Park Forest officials are urging residents to take precautions, stay cool, and check on vulnerable neighbors—particularly older adults and young children.
Starting Friday, temperatures across the Village are expected to climb into the mid-90s, with the heat index—how hot it feels when humidity is factored in—ranging from 103 to 107 degrees. The prolonged stretch of extreme heat has prompted the Village to activate its cooling centers to provide residents with relief.
The Park Forest Police Department, located at 200 Lakewood Boulevard, will be open 24 hours a day as a designated cooling center. Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, will also be available as a cooling center during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Thursday, when Village Hall will be closed in observance of the Juneteenth holiday.
Deputy Fire Chief Mark Cotrano emphasized the importance of looking out for one another, especially the elderly, who are at higher risk during extreme heat events.
“Older people are more likely to experience heat-related health problems than younger people because their bodies have more difficulty regulating temperature,” Cotrano said. “It is essential to be cautious and get relief quickly when overheating. Otherwise, you might feel sick or risk a heat-related illness that could cause serious health issues.”
Children are also particularly vulnerable.
Cotrano advised parents to ensure kids stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun while playing outside.
Residents are encouraged to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses, which can escalate quickly if not addressed. Heat exhaustion symptoms include dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, fatigue, and weakness. Heat stroke—a medical emergency—can cause confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and a core body temperature exceeding 104 degrees.
Nationwide, extreme heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths, surpassing hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends checking on elderly relatives, neighbors, and others at risk at least twice a day during extreme heat events.
Cotrano urged residents to limit outdoor activity when possible and to call 911 in the event of a medical emergency.
“Heat waves are not just uncomfortable—they’re dangerous,” Cotrano said. “We’re asking the community to take this seriously and help keep everyone safe.”