Urban News Staff Reports
Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Department of Health and Community Wellness (DHCW) Director Mark J. Wade announced that a “Code Red” is being issued for Monday, July 27, 2020. Temperatures are expected to rise to 96◦ F with a Heat Index of 101◦ F between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The Health Department is urging Newark residents to take precautions to prevent serious illness that can result from the heat, especially among vulnerable individuals such as seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions. Newark residents who are vulnerable should use air conditioning to stay cool, drink water at regular intervals, and limit strenuous activity, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Residents are urged to call and check in on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors to help them stay cool.
The City is reminding residents that there are emergency shelters operating during the extreme hot weather that have partnered with the City to provide overnight sheltering. For more information about sheltering services, contact the shelters listed below or the Department of Health and Community Wellness, Division of Social Services at (973) 877- 9481, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Health and Safety Tips for Protection from 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 may open cooling centers in the five wards when temperatures reach extremely high temperature and humidity levels. If cooling centers do open, you may find the nearest ones by calling: (973) 733-4311; go to http://www.newarknj.gov or follow us on Facebook.