Illinois Tollway launches 24-hour hot weather patrols during heat wave
The Illinois Tollway announced on June 29 that it has mobilized 24-hour Hot Weather Patrols to provide rapid roadside assistance for customers stranded along its system during a dangerous heat wave expected to last through the weekend.
According to the agency, these special patrols are deployed whenever temperatures or heat indexes indicate hazardous conditions for drivers stopped along the road. The patrols search for stranded motorists in disabled vehicles and respond to calls made to *999 motorist assistance or Illinois Tollway dispatch.
"During this dangerously hot weather, we’re re-assigning workers to patrol the Illinois Tollway system to ensure we can rapidly locate and assist any stranded drivers," said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse. "Operating Hot Weather Patrols bolsters our roadway coverage, providing additional assistance to ensure drivers can safely complete their travels."
While Highway Emergency Lane Patrol (H.E.L.P.) trucks supported by GEICO operate from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, at least 12 Hot Weather Patrols are now providing around-the-clock coverage throughout the heat wave. These crew cab trucks are equipped with arrow boards for directing traffic and can transport passengers if motorists need relief from the heat or require transportation while their vehicle is serviced.
The agency advises travelers on its system to dial *999 for assistance, remain with their vehicles, turn on emergency lights, and note their location details until help arrives. Common issues addressed by these patrols include empty fuel tanks, flat tires, dead batteries, or overheated radiators.
The Illinois Tollway also offered summer travel tips such as keeping tires properly inflated, maintaining fluid levels, carrying an emergency kit with water and supplies, refraining from using hand-held phones while driving—which is illegal in Illinois—and slowing down when approaching vehicles with hazard lights activated. The agency reminds customers that oases along its network offer opportunities for rest and vehicle checks. The tollway maintains and operates 294 miles of roadways across Northern Illinois without state or federal funding.