Community Corner

Montclair: Excessive Heat Could Be 'Life-Threatening'

Township provides tips for staying cool, shares signs of heat stroke during week where temps will reach mid-to-high 90s.

It’s been really hot and it’s only getting hotter.

The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory Monday for portions of Northeastern New Jersey, including Montclair, where high temperatures in the 90s are forecasted through the end of the week.

Monday’s heat advisory is in effect from noon to 8 p.m.

Find out what's happening in Montclairwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Montclair Health Department is providing heat safety information to help residents stay cool in the excessive heat, which they remind residents could be "life-threatening." 

The following tips have been shared by the Montclair Health Department:

Find out what's happening in Montclairwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Use air conditioning or spend time in air-conditioned locations, such as public libraries, bookstore, malls and movie theaters.
  • Take a cool bath or shower.
  • Minimize direct exposure to the sun.
  • Limit time outdoors as much as possible; take frequent breaks if you must be outside.
  • Stay hydrated — drink water or nonalcoholic fluids.
  • Wear loose fitting, light-colored clothes.
  • Check on your neighbors, friends and family members — especially those who are older and /or with health issues.
  • Do not leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows rolled down, even for a few minutes.

The health department warns that while anyone can be overcome by extreme heat, the elderly, very young, and people with mental illness or chronic disease are at higher risk. It is also important to know the signs of heat-related illness and heat stroke provided below.

Some signs of heat-related illness:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Paleness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Tiredness
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fainting

Symptoms of heat stroke include an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F), red, hot, and dry skin, rapid breathing, racing heart rate, headache, nausea, confusion and unconsciousness. If heat stroke is suspected, call 9-1-1 immediately.

For additional information, contact The Health Department at 973-509-4970.

How will you stay cool during this heat wave? Tell us in the comments.


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