No Sweat: Cranford Opens Cooling Centers

CRANFORD, NJ - The weather forecast for the next few days could see temperatures hitting triple digits, but residents don't need to sweat it, because the Cranford has opened up a cooling center to help beat the heat.

The Cranford Community Center will be available to Cranford Residents to cool off should the need arise from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Cranford Police Captain Joseph Van Bergen reminded residents to take proper precautions.

During a Heat Wave:

• It is NEVER safe to leave a toddler, disabled person, or pet locked in a car, even for a very brief period of time. Cars can reach dangerous temperatures in under two minutes.
• Slow Down: Reduce, eliminate, or reschedule strenuous activities until the coolest time of the dat. Children, seniors, and anyone with health problems should stay in eh coolest available place.
• Drink Plenty of Water – Stay hydrated by drinking water and other clear liquids. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks as they can dehydrate. Drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty. And don’t forget your pets – always provide access to fresh, cool water.
• Dress for the weather – Wear lightweight, light colored clothing to reflect heat. Minimize direct exposure to the sun and take frequent shade breaks if outdoors. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out.
• Continue to reapply it according to the package directions.
• Use Fans and Air Conditioners – Portable electric fans and ceiling fans can help cool your home more quickly, and make it feel cooler, helping save electricity. Always plug air conditioners and fans directly into wall outlets – never use extension cords or power strips. If you home does not have air conditioning, take breaks in air conditions locations such as malls or stores.
• Watch out for infants, seniors, and pets – Although anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others: including Infants and young children, People 65 years of age or older, People who overexert during work or exercise, People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation
• Pay close attention to them and check in with neighbors, friends, or relatives.
• Protect foods and electronics – Don’t leave cell phones, GPS units, and other battery powered electronics in hot cars. Use coolers for food items – meat and dairy items particularly will spoil quickly in hot weather, especially in hot cars.

Know the Signs of Heat Illness:

• Heat Exhaustion is characterized by feeling faint, excessive sweating, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, and a rapid, weak pulse.
• Heat Stroke is characterized by a throbbing headache, no sweating, red, dry, hot skin, nausea or vomiting, rapid, strong pulse. This is a serious medical emergency which you should call 9-1-1 immediately.

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