It may be September, but a wave of heat has arrived! Here is what you need to know to be prepared!
Know how to recognize the signs of heat-related illness and how to respond to it.
HEAT CRAMPS
• Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs
• Actions: Go to a cooler location. Remove excess clothing. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if cramps last more than an hour.
HEAT EXHAUSTION
• Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea, vomiting
• Actions: Go to an air-conditioned place and lie down. Loosen or remove clothing. Take a cool bath. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.
HEAT STROKE
• Signs:
- Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees) taken orally
- Red, hot and dry skin with no sweat
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness
• Actions: Call 9-1-1 or get the person to a hospital immediately.
Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives.
Safety Tips:
- Find places with air conditioning. Libraries, shopping malls, and community centers can provide a cool place to take a break from the heat. Visit nj211.org or dial 2-1-1 to find a cooling center near you.
- Be a good neighbor. Check on those vulnerable to the heat including the elderly, children and family pets.
- Be mindful when planning outdoor activities. Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated.
- Reminder: The inside of cars gets hot quickly, and much more intensely than outside. NEVER leave kids or pets inside a locked vehicle!
To learn more on how to beat the heat, Click Here.