Sizzling Heat Prompts Burlco Warnings, Tips

With temperatures set to soar to the upper 90s today and tomorrow—and the heat index expected to top 100 degrees—the Burlington County Health Department issued a reminder that assistance is available to some residents to help them cope with the extreme weather.

The county has a program that distributes electric box fans to Burlington County’s elderly and infirm who meet maximum income requirements. The Office on Aging screens candidates for the program and, if accepted, residents receive the fan.

Burlington County residents may call 609-265-5069, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. to apply for a fan. Call 211 after hours to apply, or to get advice on avoiding heat-related illnesses. 

“Although anyone is susceptible to a heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others,” Freeholder Mary Ann O’Brien said in a statement. “Infants and young children, persons over the age of 65, people with mental disabilities and those who are physically ill, are most at risk for suffering a heat-related illness.”

These populations need extra care during excessive heat watches. They should be visited twice a day and monitored for symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, the county advised.

Residents without access to home air-conditioning should go to public facilities, such as a mall or library.

Heat-related illnesses occur when the body is unable to cool itself. If not treated, it can be deadly. 

In addition to seeking out a cool environment, people can take basic steps to avoid heat-related illnesses.

• Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol, which can dehydrate the body
• Avoid carbonated beverages, which can cause bloating or take the place of hydrating liquids
• Wear light-colored, absorbent, loose fitting clothing
• Stay in cool, shady areas whenever possible, and protect skin with sunblock
• Limit exercise, or if you do exercise, drink two to four glasses of non-alcoholic fluids each hour.

“Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are preventable,” Robert Gogats, county public health coordinator, said. “The first step is to drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration will often occur on days when there are high temperatures and can progress into more serious heat-related illness, which is why drinking fluids is so vital.”

For more information on avoiding heat-related illnesses, visit the Burlington County Health Department website (co.burlington.nj.us), the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Service (state.nj.us/health) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov).