State under excessive heat warning

Tips on staying cool, hydrated and safe to help alleviate problems West Trenton — With temperatures expected to hit the upper 90s and to lurch as high as 100 degrees or higher on Thursday, June 9, the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, in coordination with the National Weather Service, is warning residents about how to stay safe. High humidity levels will add to the discomfort; and air quality alerts have also been issued. Children, older adults, people with disabilities and pets are most at risk during excessive temperature conditions. Air quality alerts cause additional concerns for individuals with respiratory issues. “High temperatures, humidity and reduced air quality make outdoor activities and non air-conditioned facilities extremely dangerous and uncomfortable,” said Col. Rick Fuentes, State Police superintendent and director of the Office of Emergency Management. “Be mindful of the threats that heat waves pose such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and sometimes death. These threats can be minimized and eliminated if we practice heat-related precautions and guidelines.” Fuentes suggested the following heat related emergency safety tips: Stay indoors in air conditioning as much as possible If you do go outside stay in the shade If your home is not air conditioned, spend at least two hours daily at an air conditioned mall, library or other public place Wear sunscreen outside, along with loose fitting light colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible Drink water regularly even if you are not thirsty. Limit alcohol, and sugary drinks which speeds dehydration Never leave children or pets alone in the car Avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day Take a cool shower or bath Be a good neighbor, check on the elderly and people with disabilities in your community who may need assistance keeping cool Additionally, residents should contact their local and/or county offices of emergency management regarding any open cooling stations. Heat is often referred to as the “silent killer,” in contrast to tornados, hurricanes and other natural hazards with more dramatic visual effects. For more information about heat related emergencies, log on to www.ready.nj.gov or call 2-1-1. Air quality information can be found at www.airnow.gov.