Illinois doubling available cooling centers

SPRINGFIELD -- People who need to escape the heat blanketing Illinois can visit more than 120 government offices across the state.

Cooling centers are being opened at all Department of Human Services offices and at seven Illinois Tollway oases in the Chicago area. They're open during regular business hours.

The Department on Aging is encouraging people to make daily visits or calls to senior citizens living alone. With temperatures and humidity so high, seniors and people with chronic health conditions can suffer from dehydration and other health risks.

The Public Health Department encourages people of all ages to drink plenty of fluids; avoid caffeine, alcohol and sugar; wear appropriate clothing and stay in air-conditioned rooms whenever possible.

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