(Gloucester Township, NJ) — The Camden County Health Officer has issued a Heat Advisory for our region effective Sunday, July 14 through Wednesday, July 17 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day. During a Heat Advisory, hot temperatures can create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible.
“As temperatures reach dangerous levels, residents are urged to stay indoors and stay as hydrated as possible,” said County Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services. “During times of extreme heat, it is crucial to remain vigilant and look out for any signs of heat stress. Contact medical services immediately if you or a loved one are noticing any symptoms of heat exhaustion.”
The latest weather forecast obtained by the health department is calling for hot conditions, with temperatures in the upper-90s.
To avoid heat-related illness, the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services recommends the following:
- Avoid, as much as possible, working or playing in the hot sun or other hot areas. If you must be out in the sun, wear a head covering. A wide-brimmed hat or visor will not only protect your head from intense rays of the sun, it will also provide a shield for your eyes.
- Use air-conditioners and fans. Open windows to release trapped hot air.
- Those taking regular medication should consult with their physician. Some medications cause an adverse reaction in hot weather.
- Wear lightweight clothing.
- Drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids, warm and cool. Because the body loses fluids in the heat, drinking lots of liquids helps to avoid dehydration.
- Maintain a normal diet.
- Shower or bathe in water that is near skin temperature.
- Do not leave older people, children or pets alone in cars.
- Make sure your pets also have plenty of fresh drinking water.
- The early warning signs of heat stress are decreased energy, slight loss of appetite, faintness, light-headedness and nausea. People experiencing these symptoms should go to a cool environment, drink liquids, remove excess clothing and rest.
Serious signs of heat stress include unconsciousness, rapid heartbeat, throbbing headache, dry skin, chest pain, mental confusion, irritability, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, staggering and difficulty breathing. People experiencing these symptoms should get to immediate medical attention. While waiting for help, move the person to a cool area, remove excess clothing, spray with water, and fan the person. In an emergency, dial 911.