Monitor Elderly During Excessive Heat, Township Official Says

With Wednesday marking the beginning of an excessive heat warning throughout much of New Jersey, Manchester's significant senior population — and their families — should take extra care, according to the Office of Emergency Management.

"Families should check on their loved ones periodically throughout the event to make sure they have electricity, water, air conditioning," said Arthur Abline, the department's coordinator. "And if they don't have air, we would recommend they stay with a family member or friend that does."

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook, as heat indices on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons are expected to range from the upper 90s to near 103 degrees.

"High temperatures and humid conditions have the possibility of making outdoor activities and non air-conditioned facilities extremely dangerous and uncomfortable," State Police Superintendent Col. Rick Fuentes said in a statement Tuesday.

To stay cooler while inside during daylight hours, Abline recommends keeping shades and blinds closed. 

"This will reflect the heat of the sun back outside by not allowing it to enter the home or apartment," he said.

If the heat causes illness, Abline said that residents should immediately dial 911 and seek shelter by lying down in a cool building or in the shade. 

"If they are thirsty, they should slowly sip water — not gulp or guzzle — and most importantly stay calm," he said.

Signs of heat stroke include red, hot and dry skin, a very high body temperature, confusion and seizures. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include cool, moist skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea and a fast heart beat, according to Abline. 

Manchester will not establish cooling centers unless power is lost. If a home becomes too hot and a resident has nowhere else to seek refuge, Manchester's branch of the Ocean County Library or the Ocean County Mall in Toms River can provide air conditioned relief, Abline said. 

During a heat wave last summer, Suzanne Scro, manager of Manchester's county library branch, said that the Colonial Drive location experienced an increase of visitors.

Do not forget about furry family members, Abline cautioned. 

"Also remember to take care of your pets and bring them in doors where it is cooler," he said. "If you can not do that, then make sure they have plenty of shade and water to drink."