Community Corner

Union County Residents Advised on Excessive Heat

Union County has issued a heat advisory for Wednesday, June 20.

 

The following advisory has been issued by the Union County Office of Public Information:

Union County residents are being asked to limit their outdoor activity and to be aware of the risk of heat stroke starting Wednesday June 20, when temperatures and heat indexes are expected to range from the upper 90’s to as much as 100 degrees, with high humidity.

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“This sudden turnaround from a cool spring to summer’s heat can take you by surprise,” said Freeholder Chairman Alexander Mirabella. “We are reminding Union County residents, especially those at risk for heat stroke, to limit your outdoor activity, drink plenty of liquids, and seek a cool place indoors if necessary.”

Children, older adults, and people with disabilities are most at risk for cramps, exhaustion and stroke related to excessive heat.

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Symptoms of heat stroke include hot, dry skin, an absence of sweat and a rapid and strong pulse.

Pets are also at high risk and should never be left in a car or other enclosed space, even for a short period of time.

New Jersey health officials are issuing a statewide heat alert including the following guidance:

  • Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible.
  • If you do go outside stay in the shade.
  • If your home is not air conditioned, spend at least two hours daily at an air conditioned mall, library or other public place.
  • Wear sunscreen outside, along with loose fitting light colored 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 or pets 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.

For more information regarding heat related emergencies, visit ready.gov/heat, or view the National Weather Service Heat Safety Page at weather.gov. To stay informed about statewide disasters and emergencies in New Jersey via social media, follow NJOEM on Twitter @NJOEM2010 or get email and text message alerts via www.Nixle.com or www.njalert.gov .

Union County residents can get Union County alerts by signing up for UC First Alert, www.ucfirstalert.org.

For information on all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org or call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234.


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