With hot weather forecasted across Illinois this week, the Grundy County Health Department is encouraging residents to check on family members and neighbors who are vulnerable to hot weather.

High temperatures and humidity can lead to serious health problems, particularly for the elderly and young children. If the body does not cool properly or does not cool enough, a person may suffer a range of heat-related illnesses from, heat rash to heatstroke, which can be fatal.

Watch for signs of heat-related illnesses. Symptoms of heat related-illnesses include headaches, skin that is hot to the touch, increased body temperature, loss of consciousness, seizures and irregular heartbeats.