Heat Alert in Effect for Camden County

A Heat Alert is in effect for Camden County until 8 p.m., the county health officer announced. Temperatures are currently in the lower 90’s with a heat index of 100 throughout the county, and is expected to remain that way for the duration of the day, according to weather.com.

“In light of it being September temperatures are still dangerously hot for young children, the elderly and pets,” said freeholder Carmen Rodriguez, who reminded residents to stay out of the sun as much as possible, check on elderly relatives and neighbors and limit the amount of physical work done outside.

Haddon Heights' cooling centers include the borough hall at 625 Station Avenue and the library on Station Avenue.

In Haddon Township, cooling centers are located at the library on MacArthur Boulevard and Father and Son Hall on Ormond Avenue.

Haddonfield's cooling center is the Mabel Kay House, 24 Walnut Street, next to the Acme parking lot.

The Camden County Department of Health and Human Services also recommends wearing a head covering while outside; using air conditioners and fans; opening windows; wear light clothing; drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquids; maintain a normal diet; shower or bathe in water that is near skin temperature; and don’t leave older people, children and pets in cars.

They also recommend those taking medication consult their doctors, as some medications can cause adverse reactions in hot weather.

They recommend people experiencing symptoms of heat stress should seek immediate medical attention, and call 9-1-1 in extreme emergencies.

These symptoms include unconsciousness, rapid heartbeat, throbbing headache, dry skin, chest pain, mental confusion, irritability, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, staggering and difficulty breathing.

Anyone with a person experiencing these symptoms is advised to move the person to a cool area, remove excess clothing, spray with water, and fan the person while waiting for medical help to arrive.