Summer officially begins this week, and it is forecasted to bring extreme heat to our area.
Atlantic County health officials remind residents and visitors to take precautions to avoid heat-related illness.
Heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, happen when the body becomes unable to properly cool itself and there is a rapid rise in body temperature.
The evaporation of sweat is the normal way to remove body heat, but when the humidity is high, sweat does not evaporate as quickly and may prevent the body from releasing heat.
Protect yourself by staying cool and hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty; avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol which can contribute to dehydration; and cool your body temperature by spending at least a few hours in air conditioning or taking a cool shower.
Older adults, children, outdoor laborers, and people with chronic conditions are most at risk. Check with your doctor to know your risk level and check on elderly relatives or neighbors to see if they need help taking necessary precautions.
Pets are also susceptible to the effects of extreme heat and should not be left unattended in a closed vehicle.
Other advice for avoiding heat-related illness:
Reduce physical activity outdoors or schedule for the cooler parts of the day.
Wear loose and light-colored clothing.
Don’t overdress children.
Talk with your health provider before taking salt tablets and to learn if your medications affect your body’s ability to control temperature or sweat.
Provide outdoor pets with shelter from the sun and fresh, cold water.
Prompt treatment of heat-related illnesses is critical to recovery and preventing death.
For further information on heat-related illness, call the Division of Public Health at 609-645-5935 or visit the county website at atlanticcountynj.gov.
