The National Weather Service has predicted excessive heat for Wednesday, July 20 through Sunday, July 24, in the Burlington County area.
The county health department is asking residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illness during the high temperatures this week.
Burlington County will be distributing electric box fans to qualified residents — the elderly or infirm who meet income levels. The Office on Aging is screening applicants and the Office of Human Services is distributing the fans.
Residents can call 609-265-5069 during normal business hours, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or dial 2-1-1 after business hours to apply for a fan and get advice on avoiding heat-related illnesses.
It is recommended that these individuals be visited at least twice a day and watched for any symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Residents who may live in homes where there is no air conditioning are to be advised to go to public facilities in the county (i.e. malls, libraries, etc.) that are open for business during peak heat hours.
The Health Department also provided additional tips to prevent dehydration and other heat-related illnesses:
• Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol. These fluids dehydrate the body rather than hydrate like water and sports drinks
• Avoid carbonated beverages, which can cause bloating and keep people from drinking enough fluid to rehydrate
• Wear light colored, absorbent, loose fitting clothing
• Stay in cool, shady areas when possible. Protect your skin with sun block
• Limit your exercise. If you must exercise, drink 2 to 4 glasses of nonalcoholic fluids each hour.
Heat exhaustion and heat stoke occur when bodies are unable to properly cool themselves. Heat stroke is an extreme rise in body temperature and the body cannot rid itself of the excess heat.
Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not sought. Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat stroke that can occur from long exposures to high temperatures.
Each year, more people die from extreme heat than from hurricanes, lighting, tornadoes, floods and earthquakes combined. On average, approximately 300 people die each year from extreme heat. Typically, in New Jersey fewer than five people die annually from heat stroke.
For more information on heat-related illnesses, prevention tips and first aid recommendations, visit the Burlington County Health Department web site at www.co.burlington.nj.us.
