Township Of Millburn: Tips For Coping With Excessive Heat

Press release from the Township of Millburn:

May 19, 2022

The Township of Millburn urges residents to stay hydrated and as cool as possible this weekend and throughout the summer months!

Here are some tips for managing the heat:

Try to stay indoors during the hottest times of the day, typically between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Close drapes and blinds on windows that face the sun to prevent heat from impacting indoor temperatures and avoid using heat-producing appliances during the hottest hours of the day.

If you need to be outside, be aware of cooling centers nearby! Libraries, shopping malls and supermarkets can be used as cooling centers during heat events. A list of nearby centers can be found below.

Choose lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing to wear in a heat wave.

Replaces the fluids you lose through sweat by drinking water and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Choose cold foods and fruits to eat – they are refreshing and contain more water than other options! A sports drink can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat.

Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, irregular pulse, muscle cramps, weakness or dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Heat exhaustion can quickly lead to heat stroke which can turn deadly. Seek medical attention if you are suffering from any of these symptoms.

Seniors are more prone to heat stress than younger people – please check on your neighbors during prolonged heat events this summer. Infants and young children are also high risk and need additional monitoring for heat-related illness. Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even if windows are open. Remember that hot pavement can seriously harm pets! Keep them indoors whenever possible.

Please visit the CDC website for additional information on dealing with extreme heat: cdc.gov/extremeheat

This press release was produced by the Township of Millburn. The views expressed here are the author’s own.