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NORTHFIELD - With the potential for a buildup of dangerous heat and humidity during the next few days, Atlantic County health officials remind residents and visitors to take precautions to to avoid heat-related illness.
A potential heat wave is forecasted for Thursday through Saturday with temperatures reaching the mid 90s and heat indexes exceeding 100 degrees.
Those most at risk for heat-related illness include sensitive populations such as the elderly, infants and young children; outdoor laborers; people who are overweight; people with mental illness; people suffering from asthma, heart disease or other lung diseases. Pets are also susceptible to the effects of heat.
Heat-related illness, also known as hyperthermia, is a condition that results from exposure to extreme heat where the body becomes unable to properly cool and there is a rapid rise in body temperature, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
The evaporation of sweat is the normal way to remove body heat, but when the humidity is high, sweat does not evaporate as quickly and may prevent the body from releasing heat. Prompt treatment of heat-related illnesses with aggressive fluid replacement and cooling of core body temperature is critical to reducing illness and preventing death
There are a number of steps people can take to guard against heat-related illness. One of the most important is to drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol as they can contribute to dehydration.
Spending a few hours a day in an air-conditioned place may also help individuals, particularly those most vulnerable, to cope with hot, humid weather.
Other advice to avoid heat related illness:
