'Code Red' heat advisory issued for Camden County, New Jersey
The Camden County Office of Emergency Management declared that that the county will be under a Code Red Advisory for the following dates and times due to projected dangerously high temperatures by the National Weather Service:
-Wednesday, July 1, 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
-Thursday, July 2, 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
-Friday, July 3, 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
-Saturday, July 4, 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
-Sunday, July 5, 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
A Code Red Advisory is issued when the National Weather Service forecasts temperatures of 95F or higher for at least two consecutive days, or a single-day temperature of 100F or above.
In accordance with state law, Camden County is activating their Code Red Response Plan to provide shelter and support for vulnerable populations during these periods of extreme heat. Based on that, cooling centers are being activated throughout the county to ensure anyone in need of respite can find it.
"When temperatures rise to dangerous levels, remember to stay inside as much as possible, drink plenty of water," said Commissioner Jonathan Young, liaison to the Camden County Department of Public Safety. "Please check on your neighbors and ensure that they are safe and able to stay cool. If someone begins to show signs of distress, contact a physician immediately."
To avoid heat-related illness, the Department of Public Safety recommends the following:
-Avoid, as much as possible, working or playing in the hot sun or other hot areas.
-If you must be out in the sun, wear a wide-brimmed hat or visor, lightweight clothing, and take plenty of breaks to avoid heat exhaustion.
-Drink plenty of water to help avoid dehydration.
-Utilize air conditioners and fans, and open windows to release trapped hot air.
-Individuals taking regular medication should consult with their physician, as some medications may cause an adverse reaction in hot weather.
-Do not leave children or pets alone in cars.
-Make sure your pets have plenty of fresh drinking water, and do not leave them outdoors for extended periods of time.
The early warning signs of heat stress are decreased energy, slight loss of appetite, faintness, light-headedness, and nausea. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should go to a cool environment, drink liquids, remove excess clothing and rest.
Serious signs of heat stress include loss of consciousness, rapid heartbeat, throbbing headache, dry skin, chest pain, confusion, irritability, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, staggering, and difficulty breathing. People experiencing these symptoms should see immediate medical attention. While waiting for help, move the person to a cool area, remove excess clothing, and mist the individual with cold water to decrease. In an emergency, dial 911. For assistance or to report individuals in need of shelter, please contact 2-1-1.
