As temperatures climb and heat waves become more frequent this summer, the Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) is reminding everyone to take precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their neighbors from dangerous heat-related illnesses.

Extreme heat is one of the leading weather-related health hazards in the United States. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 700 people die from extreme heat each year in the U.S., and thousands more require emergency medical care.

“Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly, but they are also highly preventable,” said Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department Public Health Coordinator. “Staying hydrated, limiting outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, and recognizing the early warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke can help protect you and your loved ones. We encourage everyone to take this heat seriously and make safety a priority.”

Heat Safety Tips

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol and sugary drinks.
• Stay cool. Spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, visit a library, shopping center, or designated cooling center.
• Limit outdoor activity. Schedule strenuous work or exercise during the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower.
• Dress for the weather. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
• Check on others. Older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, and those without access to air conditioning are at greater risk for heat-related illness.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle. Even with the windows cracked, temperatures inside a car can rise to life-threatening levels within minutes.
• Know the warning signs. Dizziness, heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps may signal heat exhaustion. Confusion, loss of consciousness, or a body temperature above 103° F may indicate heat stroke—a medical emergency requiring immediate 911 assistance.
• Dog days of summer. Make sure your pets have plenty of water, limit outdoor breaks, and protect their paws from pavement and other hot surfaces.

“Protecting public health is a shared responsibility, especially during periods of extreme weather,” said Ocean County Commissioner Deputy Director Jennifier Bacchione, liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. “Checking on elderly neighbors, family members, and others who may be vulnerable can make a lifesaving difference. We encourage all Ocean County residents to stay informed, follow heat safety recommendations, and look out for one another.”