Residents advised to take precautions to prevent heat related illness
The Union County Board of County Commissioners advises residents that a heat advisory remains in effect for Union County through Sunday, July 24 at 8:00 p.m., with temperatures expected to reach up to 100 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. Heat index values are expected to be in the upper 90s and lower 100s.
Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. The heat index, also known as the apparent temperature, is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures.
“We encourage all residents to be as safe as possible during this latest heatwave. There are several designated cooling places in Union County residents can visit to stay cool, as well as other steps to take in order to prevent heat-related illness,” said Commissioner Chair Rebecca Williams.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity and check on any neighbors in need. They are also reminded to not leave children or pets unattended in a car.
Residents without air conditioning can call 211 or visit https://www.nj211.org/nj-cooling-centers for a county-by-county list of cooling centers in New Jersey. Residents can also cool off by visiting local libraries, indoor malls and other public places with air conditioning.
A Heat Advisory is issued when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 95 to 99 degrees for two or more consecutive days, or 100 to 104 degrees for any length of time.
Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at an increased risk. Vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors should be checked on.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.
Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. In cases of suspected heat stroke call 911 immediately.
For more heat safety tips from the National Weather Service, visit weather.gov/safety/heat.
For more information and updates on all Union County services during the COVID-19 outbreak, visit ucnj.org/covid19. General information about COVID-19 is available through the New Jersey Department of Health at nj.gov/health.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
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