The following urgent message was issued by Lakewood Hatzolah this morning.
New Jersey Office of Emergency Management and the New Jersey Department of Health are monitoring a heat wave, with an air quality alert forecast for today and into the week, in coordination with the National Weather Service. Temperatures estimated to hit in the high 90’s. Children, older adults and people with disabilities are most at risk during excessive temperatures.
High temperatures and humid conditions have the possibility of making outdoor activities and non air-conditioned facilities extremely dangerous and uncomfortable. Be mindful of the threats that heat waves pose such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke etc. These threats can be minimized and eliminated if we practice heat-related precautions and guidelines.
The elderly and children are the most susceptible to heat stroke and exhaustion, although anyone can be affected. Hot, dry skin, an absence of sweat and a rapid and strong pulse, are all signs of heat stroke. If you have elderly family members, friends or neighbors, be sure to check in on them to make sure they are keeping cool, especially if they live alone.
Hatzolah recommends these safety tips:
• Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible
• If you do go outside, stay in the shade
• Wear sunscreen outside, along with clothes that cover as much skin as possible
• Drink water regularly even if you are not thirsty. Limit alcohol, and sugary drinks which speeds dehydration
• Never leave children alone in the car
• Avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day
• Take a cool shower or bath
• Be a good neighbor, check on elderly and people with disabilities in your community who may need assistance keeping cool
Should you experience any of the above symptoms please do not hesitate to call our emergency line 732-370-3600.
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