NEWARK – July 6, 2021 – Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Department of Health and Community Wellness Director Dr. Mark J. Wade announced that the City of Newark has activated a “Code Red” starting July 6, 2021, through Wednesday, July 7, 2021. Temperatures are expected to rise as high as 96°F with the Heat Index climbing to 101°F between 11:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.
The Health Department urges Newark residents to take precautions to prevent serious illness that can result from extreme heat, especially among the most vulnerable populations such as seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions. Vulnerable Newark residents should use air conditioning to stay cool, drink water at regular intervals, and limit strenuous activity, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
The City is reminding residents that there are emergency shelters operating during extreme hot weather that have partnered with the City to provide overnight sheltering for residents with no address. For more information regarding sheltering services, contact the shelters listed below or the Office of Homeless Services at (973) 877-9481, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
For additional information on how to beat the heat, visit http://www.newarknj.gov or follow the Newark Department of Health and Community Wellness social media pages at http://www.facebook.com/NewarkDHCW and http://www.twitter.com/NewarkDHCW.
CHECK ON THOSE PARTICULARLY VULNERABLE TO THE HEAT
A small, but crucial gesture can help ensure that we all have a safe and healthy summer. Get to know your neighbors and contact neighbors and relatives – by phone – at least twice a day during heat waves. Pay special attention to the elderly, the very young, and anyone with a pre-existing medical condition. Citizens should also check in on neighbors who may be isolated from friends and family.
HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS FOR PROTECTION AGAINST THE HEAT
- Air conditioning is the best way to stay cool when it is hot outside. However, some people do not have an air conditioner or do not turn it on when they need it. Newark residents are encouraged to use air conditioning or fans. If air conditioning is unavailable at a residence, please assist those affected to get to a place where it is available.
- Stay out of the sun. This is the quickest way to become overheated. Also, avoid extreme temperature changes.
- Wear lightweight, bright or light-colored clothing to reflect some of the sun’s energy.
- Drink fluids – water is best – even if you do not feel thirsty. Water is also the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies. This will help your body to maintain a cooler temperature. If you are on a fluid-restricted diet or taking diuretics, please consult your physician first. Avoid beverages containing alcohol and/or caffeine.
- Eat small, frequent, meals.
- Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours, which are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you must perform any strenuous activity, it is advisable to do it during the coolest part of the day, which is in the morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.
- If possible, go to an air-conditioned building for several hours during the hottest parts of the day.
- Cool down with a cool bath or shower.
- Cover all exposed skin with an SPF sunscreen (15 or above).
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and head.
- Use extreme caution in deciding to take an infant outside during extreme heat conditions.
- Be careful not to overdress small children, especially newborns and infants.
- Never leave children or pets in the car.
- The City of Newark will open cooling centers in the five wards today. You may find the nearest ones by calling (973) 733-4311; go to http://www.newarknj.gov or follow us on Facebook.
FACTS ABOUT HEAT ILLNESS
Heat illness is serious. Prolonged exposure to the heat can be harmful and potentially fatal. The added stress caused by heat can also irritate heart or lung disease even without symptoms of heat illness. The risk for getting sick during a heat wave is increased for people who:
- Do not have or do not use air conditioning.
- Are age 65 or older.
- Have chronic medical or mental health conditions.
- Take certain medications, which can disrupt the regulation of body temperature.
- Are confined to their beds, have trouble with being mobile, or are unable to leave their homes.
- Are overweight.
- Consume alcohol or illegal drugs.
Know the warning signs of heat stress! If you or someone you know feels weak or faint, go to a cool place and drink water. If there is no improvement, call a doctor or 911.
