Extended hot weather with high humidity is expected for several days. Montgomery Health Department reminds residents to be self-aware, stay cool and hydrated, and avoid over-exertion on hot summer days.
The Montgomery branch and all locations of the Somerset County Library System are great air-conditioned spots to relax and cool off in the heat of the day. Check their days and hours.
Shopping malls and movie theaters are other cool destinations for beating the heat. Please check-in on neighbors and friends in town when the heat peaks this summer, especially elderly residents or families with young children.
COOLING TIPS:
- Hot cars can kill within minutes. Never leave children or pets alone inside parked cars. Leaving windows down does not prevent temperatures inside a car from rising to deadly levels and idling is not advised - cars can stall and air conditioners can fail.
- Room air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness.
- Drink plenty of water (fluids) throughout the day and less tea, coffee, cola and alcoholic beverages. Do not wait until you feel thirsty to drink.
- Reduce or schedule outdoor activity for cooler times of the day, before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m.
- During outdoor activities, take frequent breaks.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting and open-woven clothes.
- Wear a vented hat in the sun to protect yourself from the sun's rays. Don’t forget sunscreen!
- Know the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion and what to do if they occur.
If you have a health condition that requires limiting fluids, talk with your doctor. Certain medications are known to increase the risk of heatstroke/sunstroke. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist, or more information is available from the experts at the New Jersey Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222).