Dear Residents:
The Howell Township Office of Emergency Management reminds residents to take precautions to ensure their health, safety and well being during days of high heat and humidity.
The following are some hot weather tips to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses:
o Stay in an air-conditioned space.
o Drink lots of water and natural juices. Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee and soft drinks.
o Keep shades drawn and blinds closed.
o Stay out of the sun and avoid going out in the heat.
o Keep electric lights off or turned down.
o Take cool baths or showers.
o Wear loose, light cotton clothing.
o Do not eat heavy meals.
o Avoid or minimize physical exertion.
o Do not sit in a hot car, even for a short time. Never leave a child or pet in a hot car.
o Check on family members, friends and neighbors to make sure they stay cool and safe.
o If you or anyone you know needs emergency medical attention, call 9-1-1.
During hot weather, it is important to become familiar with the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and what to do if you or someone you know is suffering from either of these conditions. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea, light-headedness, headache, cool and clammy skin, heavy perspiration, shallow breathing, muscle tremors and cramping.
Additional symptoms for heat stroke, which can be fatal, include severe headache, a red and dry face, skin that is hot to the touch, rapid and shallow breathing, significantly elevated body temperature, weak pulse, and changes in consciousness. Any person suffering from these symptoms is in a life-threatening situation and 9-1-1 should be called immediately.
Keeping Cool Tips for Your Pets
Provide water and shelter from the sun at all times.
Restrict activity during extreme heat.
Never leave pets in parked vehicles. Even moderate heat rapidly increases and can kill the pet quickly.
Please visit Howell Township Office of Emergency Management page http://www.twp.howell.nj.us/index.aspx?NID=330 for more tips preventing heat related illness.
Sincerely,
Helene Schlegel
OEM Coordinator