Decatur, IL (WAND) -Many people have stayed indoors amid the dangerously hot weather, but essential outdoor workers have no choice but to deal with the heat.

John Patterson, a worker for USIC in Illinois, deals with locating fiber optic lines.

Patterson has to spend 10 hours a day outside at work, but he knows how to deal with the heat.

“If you feel like you’re doing too much, then get in the truck with the air on, get some water, take breaks,” Patterson said. “Drink a lot of water to stay hydrated. If you don’t take care of yourself, you’re going to not make it out here.”