Many children in the Chicago area have packed their bags for the start of the school year Monday morning. But this time, it will be different than in years past: a heat warning is in effect.
Heat index values could reach 105-110 degrees Monday and Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.
Chicago will open 250 cooling centers for those enduring the outdoor elements, while Chicago Public Schools reassures parents and guardians that its facilities are air-conditioned.
In a letter to parents, CPS officials said their facilities team will work with schools to repair any air conditioning systems that are experiencing problems and ensure staff and students stay hydrated.
To keep classrooms safe, they plan to lower blinds, keep doors closed and turn off or dim overhead lights and screens when they are not needed for lessons.
All outdoor sports activities will be cancelled for Monday and Tuesday. Additionally, all outdoor practices will either be moved indoors or cancelled on those days.
These are some of the tips that Dr. Juanita Mora, national medical spokesperson for the American Lung Association, believes are most effective in keeping students and staff safe.
“Hydration, hydration, hydration. Make sure your kids have a bottle of water with them and they drink a few sips throughout the day,” Dr. Mora said. “Snacks are good and hydrating, also send them a small package of grapes or cut up oranges… Avoid sending sugary drinks like Gatorade, Kool Aid or Capri Suns. They are full of sugar and are not very hydrating.”
The doctor said anyone, including children, with underlying conditions such as asthma or seizure disorders are at increased risk of heatstroke.
“If they start to feel dehydrated, if they have a little headache, let their teacher know and get some water or go to a cooler place,” Mora said.
Some symptoms of heatstroke include dehydration, fatigue, fainting, cramps, or nausea.
