FREEHOLD – We all know Monmouth County is the place you want to be, but its beaches and parks may be the place you need to be as the National Weather Service is expecting local temperatures this weekend to hit in the upper 90s and possibly even reach 100 degrees.
 
While the local beaches and the county park system are gearing up to help you cool down, the county’s Office of Emergency Management offers the following reminders:

• Stay in the shade. Trees provide welcome shade.
• If you head to the beach, be sure to bring an umbrella.
• Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect away some of the sun's energy.
• Drink plenty of water even if you do not feel thirsty. Limit alcohol, and sugary drinks which speed dehydration
• Slow down. Avoid exertion during the hottest part of the day. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day – in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m. 
• Eat small meals and eat more often.

“The phrase ‘cooler at the shore’ will have special meaning through early next week,” said Freeholder William C. Barham, liaison to the county’s Office of Emergency Management. “While the temperature and humidity rise, it may be better for some residents to stay inside and in air-conditioned spaces.”
 
The county’s Office of Emergency Management also offers additional heat related tips to those who prefer not to head outside as the temperature rises: 

• Stay indoors in air-conditioning as much as possible.
• If your home is not air-conditioned, spend at least two hours daily at an air-conditioned mall, library or other public place.
• Take a cool shower or bath.
• Never leave children or pets alone in the car.
• Be a good neighbor, check on elderly and special needs individuals in your community who may need assistance keeping cool.

The county’s Health Department cautions residents to be aware that extreme heat conditions can trigger physical ailments such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you think you or someone else has symptoms of a heat-related illness, you should seek medical attention.

A complete list of beaches and the county parks is available on the Monmouth County Web site at www.visitmonmouth.com. For information about events and activities that may help you beat the heat, click on the link to the tourism section of the Web site. For more information regarding heat related emergencies, please log on to the state’s emergency preparedness website at www.ready.nj.gov