What to Do for Heat-Related Emergencies

Temperatures are expected to reach near triple digits today and local and county officials said preparations are in place for heat-related emergencies.

Seniors who don't have air conditioning can cool off and find plenty of activities at the at the Mabel Kay Senior Center, 24 Walnut St., 856-354-8789. The center is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is closed on weekends.  

Non-seniors can get help by calling 911 emergency services, which will refer them to Linda Harrington, the borough emergency services coordinator, borough Clerk Deanna Bennett said today. The Lutheran Church, 204 Wayne Ave., is the designated cooling center for non-seniors, but Harrington must be notified first.

Temperatures are expected to reach 101 degrees Friday. Relief may be coming by the end of the weekend, with forecasted highs only in the high 80s.

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.
• 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.