With temperatures expected to reach nearly 100 today and tomorrow, the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) urges residents to take steps to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

“Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition and heat exhaustion can also require hospital care,” said Health and Senior Services Commissioner Fred M. Jacobs, M.D., J.D.  “When the weather turns extremely hot and humid, it’s vital to drink plenty of fluids, spend time in cool places and reduce or reschedule any physical activity.

“And please remember to check on elderly family members and neighbors to make sure they are safe,” Dr. Jacobs added.

To avoid health complications from excessive heat:

People suffering heatstroke can go from appearing normal to extremely ill in a matter of minutes.  Victims may have hot, dry skin, a high body temperature of 106 degrees or more, an absence of sweat, and a rapid and strong pulse.  Victims may become delirious or unconscious. Persons suffering from heatstroke need immediate medical attention.

Heat exhaustion is a milder illness that may take several days of high temperatures to develop. Victims may have pale, clammy skin and sweat profusely. They may feel tired, weak or dizzy and have headaches or sometimes cramps, but their body temperature will remain close to normal.

For more information on preventing heat-related illness, please visit the DHSS web site at www.nj.gov/health/eoh/hhazweb/cool.htm.

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