Garden State Times

The Camden County Health Officer has issued a Heat Advisory for the region, effective from Tuesday, July 9 to Wednesday, July 10, between 12 p.m. and 8 p.m. each day. During this period, hot temperatures could lead to heat-related illnesses.

"When temperatures rise to dangerous levels, remember to stay inside as much as possible, drink plenty of water, and contact a physician if you or a loved one is showing signs of heat stress," said County Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, liaison to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services. "It is important that residents continue to check on vulnerable friends, family and neighbors to ensure that they are safe and able to stay cool."

The latest weather forecast from the health department predicts temperatures in the mid-90s.

To avoid heat-related illness, the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services recommends:

- Avoiding work or play in direct sunlight or other hot areas. If necessary, wear head coverings like wide-brimmed hats or visors.

- Using air-conditioners and fans while ensuring windows are open to release trapped hot air.

- Consulting with physicians if taking regular medication that might react adversely in hot weather.

- Wearing lightweight clothing.

- Drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids to prevent dehydration.

- Maintaining a normal diet.

- Showering or bathing in water near skin temperature.

- Not leaving older people, children, or pets alone in cars.

- Ensuring pets have ample fresh drinking water.

Early warning signs of heat stress include decreased energy, slight loss of appetite, faintness, light-headedness, and nausea. Those experiencing these symptoms should seek a cool environment, hydrate well, remove excess clothing and rest.

Serious signs include unconsciousness, rapid heartbeat, throbbing headache, dry skin, chest pain, mental confusion, irritability, vomiting, diarrhea muscle cramps staggering difficulty breathing Immediate medical attention is required for such symptoms; while waiting for help move the person to a cool area remove excess clothing spray with water fan them In an emergency dial 911