The temperatures are expected to stay in the 90s through the rest of the week and the State Health Department is urging New Jersey residents to take precautions to avoid health-related complications that can happen as a result.

Heatwave
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"Spend time inside air conditioned places, drink plenty of water and be sure to check on the elderly and young children during this week of hot and humid weather," said Health Commissioner Mary O'Dowd.  "Try to avoid over-exerting yourself and take frequent breaks if you are engaging in physical activity."

To avoid health complications due to heat, you can take the following steps:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and ensure that persons with mobility problems have adequate fluids in easy reach;
  • Don't leave children, an elderly or a disabled person, or pets in an enclosed car -- not even for a minute -- as temperatures can quickly climb to dangerous levels;
  • If you do not have air conditioning, spend time in air-conditioned places such as libraries, movie theaters, malls or other public buildings during the hottest hours of the day. Check with your municipality to see if cooling centers are available;
  • Wear loose and light-colored clothing. Wear a hat when outdoors;
  • Avoid any outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day. Minimize physical activity for cooler times of the day (early morning or evening); and
  • Talk to your health care provider about any medicine or drugs you are taking. Certain medications -- such as tranquilizers and drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease -- can increase the risk of heat-related illness

For more information, visit http://www.ready.nj.gov/, the National Weather Service Heat Safety Page, or NJ 2-1-1.

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