Tollway launches 'Hot Weather Patrols' to assist motorists

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill. (AP) - The Illinois Tollway has launched around-the-clock "hot weather patrols" to locate and assist motorists during high temperatures and humidity throughout the weekend.

The 294-mile interstate road system in northeastern Illinois typically dispatches the patrols when temperatures or heat indices foretell dangerous conditions for stranded drivers.

The 24-hour patrols search for disabled vehicles and respond to calls that come into (asterisk)999 motorist assistance, the Tollway dispatch system or the Illinois State Police.

Tollway executive director Liz Gorman says the agency is putting additional patrols on the roads this weekend. By spotting stranded motorists, help can be more quickly on the way and drivers can get out of the heat and back on their way.

Officials say motorists should activate emergency lights and stay with a stranded vehicle until help arrives.