The Burlington County Health Department is encouraging residents to take precautions during this week’s extreme heat wave.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for all of Burlington County that began on July 20 at 11 a.m. through July 24 at 8 p.m. The advisory warns of severe temperatures in the upper 90s each day with high humidity and little relief in the evening hours.
During the heat wave, residents are advised to remain indoors — preferably in air-conditioned rooms or with a fan — and to drink plenty of fluids. Also, residents should avoid strenuous work or exercise outdoors. Children and pets should not be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Please check on elderly relatives and neighbors who may be more susceptible to heat illnesses.
“During this period of extreme high temperatures, it’s critically important that residents pay attention to the conditions and not underestimate the dangers the heat can pose,” said Dr. Herb Conaway, director of the Burlington County Health Department. “Prolonged exposure to hot temperatures can cause a number of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke and dehydration, and result in death if untreated. We need everyone to take precautions and be aware of the early warning signs of heat stress, such as decreased energy, loss of appetite, faintness, light-headedness and nausea. Anyone experiencing those symptoms should immediately seek a cool environment and drink liquids right away.”
Elderly residents, young children and people with certain medical conditions may be more at-risk for heat-related illnesses and should take extra precautions, Conaway said.
Residents in need of an air-conditioned environment during the day can visit any of the Burlington County Library branches, which serve as designated cooling centers during extreme heat days. The locations are:
- Burlington County Library, Main; 5 Pioneer Blvd, Westampton
- Bordentown Library, 18 East Union Street, Bordentown
- Cinnaminson Library, 1619 Riverton Road, Cinnaminson
- Evesham Library, 984 Tuckerton Road, Marlton
- Maple Shade Library, 200 Stiles Avenue, Maple Shade
- Pemberton Library, 16 Broadway, Browns Mills
- Pinelands Library, 49 Union Street, Medford
- Riverton Library, 306 Main Street, Riverton
The Moorestown Mall on Route 38 is another location available to the public to seek relief from the extreme temperatures.
The Burlington County Department of Human Services also has a limited supply of electric fans available for Burlington County senior citizens who require one. The fans are available at the Human Services Building, 795 Woodlane Road, Westampton. To request one, contact the Burlington County Office on Aging at 609-265-5069.
More than 150 fans have been distributed so far this summer, according to the Office on Aging.
“This heat can be dangerous for anyone, but particularly for our elderly neighbors, so we’re encouraging them to take all necessary precautions,” said Burlington County Commissioner Felicia Hopson, the Board’s liaison to the Health Department and Department of Human Services. “We’re also asking residents to please check on any older relatives or neighbors who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. We all want to enjoy a fun-filled summer, so let’s make sure we look after one another and take precautions to avoid any unnecessary tragedies.”
Burlington County Commissioner Allison Eckel said residents planning to spend time outdoors this week should be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
“We know a lot is going on this week, including the return of Burlington County Farm Fair, summer camps and other outdoor events and activities,” said Eckel, the Board’s liaison to the Department of Resource Conservation and Parks. “Simple precautions like drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids and wearing lightweight clothing, sunblock and other protection, such as a wide-brimmed hat or visor, are important for everyone and can help those outdoors stay safe and enjoy themselves.”
