Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Department of Health and Community Wellness (DHCW) Director Mark J. Wade today advised that hot weather impacting the Newark region today could be unsettling to vulnerable populations. While the City of Newark will NOT be opening cooling sites today, residents are urged to visit the following locations to beat the heat:
“The City of Newark faced a heat wave of temperatures greater than 90 degrees yesterday and today and the rest of the week will continue to be warm. The Health Department urges Newark residents to take precautions to prevent serious illness that can result from the heat, especially among vulnerable individuals such as seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions. Newark residents who are vulnerable should use air conditioning to stay cool, go to a place that has air conditioning if it is not available at home, drink water at regular intervals, and limit strenuous activity, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Residents are urged to check in on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors to help them stay cool,” Mayor Baraka said.
For additional information how to beat the heat, visit http://www.newarknj.gov or the Newark Department of Health and Community Wellness’ social media at http://www.facebook.com/NewarkDHCW and http://www.twitter.com/NewarkDHCW.
Residents are encouraged to use air conditioning to stay cool or to retreat to a place that has air conditioning if it is not available at home; to drink water at regular intervals, and to limit strenuous activity, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Residents are also urged to check in on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors during this time. Here are additional health tips to keep in mind during the heat advisory:
CHECK ON THOSE PARTICULARLY VULNERABLE TO THE HEAT
A small but crucial gesture can help ensure that we all have a safe and healthy summer: Get to know your neighbors, and contact neighbors and relatives—in person or by phone—at least twice a day during heat waves. Pay special attention to the elderly, the very young, and anyone with a pre-existing medical condition. Citizens should also check in on neighbors who may be isolated from friends and family.
HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS FOR PROTECTION AGAINST THE HEAT
ENERGY-SAVING TIPS
During periods of intense electrical usage, such as on hot, humid days, it is important to conserve energy as much as possible to avoid brownouts and other electrical disruptions. While diminishing your power usage may seem like an inconvenience, your cooperation will help to ensure that utilities are able to continue to provide uninterrupted electrical service to you and your neighbors.
FACTS ABOUT HEAT ILLNESS
Heat illness is serious. Prolonged exposure to the heat can be harmful and potentially fatal. The added stress caused by heat can also exasperate heart or lung disease even without symptoms of heat illness. The risk for getting sick during a heat wave is increased for people who:
· Do not have or do not use air conditioning
· Are age 65 or older
· Have chronic medical or mental health conditions
· Take certain medications, which can disrupt the regulation of body temperature
· Are confined to their beds, have trouble with being mobile, or are unable to leave their homes
· Are overweight
· Consume alcohol or illegal drugs
Know the warning signs of heat stress!
Call 911 immediately if you have, or someone you know has:
KEEPING YOUR PETS SAFE
The summer months can be just as uncomfortable for pets as it is for humans. Pets are affected by humidity as much as the ambient hot temperatures. Follow these tips for keeping your four-legged family members comfortable during the heat advisory.
“The City of Newark and The Department of Health and Community Wellness are always available to answer any questions that you may have during this heat advisory. We are working to make our City one that we can all be healthy in and believe in!” said Director Wade.