Public Information Office
(603) 271-9391
July 13, 2012
Concord, NH – With the high temperatures expected in the State over the next several days, the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) reminds people to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion, most importantly staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water. The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Emergency Services Unit (ESU) has also been working with communities across the State to compile a list of cooling centers that are air conditioned.
These are places where people can go to escape the extremely hot weather. There are approximately 20 centers that are open at this time, located all over New Hampshire. The list of community organizations will be updated as the conditions change. To find a center in your community please call 211. People can always go to shopping centers, stores, movie theaters, or libraries to cool off also.
Due to the predicted high heat and humidity, DHHS is recommending that people take precautions against heat-related illnesses such as, heat stroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion. This is of particular concern for those who are working or exercising outside, seniors, children and people with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease and asthma. Simple precautions include remaining in an air-conditioned environment whenever possible, which is the number one protective measure, drinking plenty of fluids especially water, but avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and large amounts of sugar, wearing light clothing, and limiting outdoor activity. For concerns about your health or someone else’s during excessive heat, contact your healthcare provider or call 911 for emergency assistance.
For more information on heat-related illnesses, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at www.cdc.gov. For questions about animal health and heat, call the Department of Agriculture at 603-271-2404 or visit www.agriculture.nh.gov. For questions related to air quality and the heat, contact the Department of Environmental Services at 603-271-1370 or visit www.airquality.nh.gov.