The summer has arrived which means high temperatures can be expected. The township reminds residents to be mindful of the potential dangers of extreme heat and heat-related illness. The Livingston Health Department shared the following tips to help residents stay safe and cool in the heat.
• Stay in a place where there is air conditioning; especially when temperatures reach 95 °F or higher, a fan will not keep you cool. If you don’t have air conditioning, find a place you can go to with air conditioning such as a shopping mall, library, or friend/family members home. Taking a cool bath or shower can also help.
• Never stay in a hot car or leave pets, children, or others in a hot car, even if the windows are rolled down, and even if you think you will only be gone for a few minutes. Hot cars can be deadly within a short period of time.
• Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water or other non-alcoholic andnon-caffeinated liquids. Remember to keep pets well hydrated, too. Be mindful that pavement and asphalt can get hot and hurt your pet’s feet.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting summer clothing. If going outside, wear sunscreen along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes.
• Avoid being outdoors during the hottest time of the day - from about 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Cover any windows in your home with blinds, shades, or curtains to help keep the heat out and maintain cooler temperatures inside.
• Avoid using your oven/stove to cook on very hot days if possible. If you must cook indoors on those days, have the range turned on only as long as necessary, and be sure to use your above-range exhaust fan.
• Check on friends, neighbors, family, and pets to make sure they are safe. Different individuals can vary in their susceptibility to the effects of heat, and others may need assistance.
• Make sure to know the signs of heat cramps, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion – and how to respond. A heat stroke is a medical emergency and if someone may be having a heat stroke call 911 or get them to the nearest hospital right away. Symptoms of a heat stroke can include; dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness, strong/rapid pulse, high body temperature of 103°F or above, hot, red, damp, or dry skin, nausea, and headache. Learn more at ready.gov/heat.
Be Mindful of Wildfire Smoke Canadian wildfires have caused smoke and poor air quality recently. It is possible that wildfires may affect the air quality locally during the summer months. If you are concerned about exposure to wildfire smoke, below are some tips to help limit your exposure.
• Visit airnow.gov and enter your zip code to check the air quality where you are.
• Those who are more sensitive to the smoke – which can include infants, young children, the elderly, and those with lung/breathing conditions – should remain indoors when the air quality is affected by wildfire smoke.
• Minimize or avoid spending time being active outdoors; those who must spend time outdoors (such as for work) should try to take indoor breaks.
• Keep windows and doors closed. When driving, turn on the car’s air conditioning to the “recirculate” mode so it does not take in air from the outside. Keep your home air conditioning filter clean and, if possible, keep the fresh air intake closed.
• Avoid vacuuming, lighting candles or fireplaces, and smoking, all of which can further negatively affect air quality.
