The Office of the Camden County Health Officer has issued a Heat Alert for Camden County for July 8, effective Noon until 7 p.m. Residents should contact their municipality for the location of their local cooling center. The latest weather forecast obtained by Camden County is calling for sunny, hot and humid conditions with highs approaching 95 and a peak heat index of 98.
Cooling centers in Cherry Hill include the Cherry Hill Public Library, the Cherry Hill Mall and the community center.
“When the Camden County Health Officer issues a Heat Alert, municipalities are notified that it would be appropriate to open municipal cooling centers to the public. Each municipality in Camden County has identified and is responsible for activating its own municipal cooling center,” said Freeholder Carmen Rodriguez, liaison to the Camden County Department of Health and Human Services. “Please remember to check on elderly relatives and neighbors during the heat emergency, and do not over exert yourself outdoors in the sun.”
Serious signs of heat stress include unconsciousness, rapid heartbeat, throbbing headache, dry skin, chest pain, mental confusion, irritability, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, staggering and difficulty breathing. People experiencing these symptoms should get to immediate medical attention. While waiting for help, move the person to a cool area, remove excess clothing, spray with water, and fan the person. In an emergency, dial 911.