TOMS RIVER – Stay cool this summer with some help from Ocean County officials. The Office of Senior Services is once again providing “Beat the Heat” resources for seniors, so as temperatures grow warmer, residents are informed on how to stay safe and cool.
“The annual ‘Beat the Heat’ publication that is compiled by the Ocean County Office of Senior Services is updated and now available to seniors living in Ocean County,” said Ocean County Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari, who serves as chairman to Senior Services. “This publication provides our residents with information on where to go and who to contact in regards to heat related matters, and also gives tips to staying cool in the summer heat.”
“Beat the Heat” provides residents with various outreach programs and even information on where to access help when it comes to air conditioner and screen repairs. In this publication, you can find locations and telephone numbers for helpful programs all over the county, in Brick, Berkeley, Manchester, Jackson, Long Beach, Stafford and Toms River townships.
“With over 170,000 seniors calling Ocean County home, it is important that they are prepared for the summer heat,” Vicari said. “Our Office of Senior Services is providing a useful guide that touches on a number of topics so our seniors can have a safe, happy and healthy summer season.”
Officials noted that transportation will be made available for those who need it.
“Beat the Heat” not only keeps residents informed on where to find help, but it informs residents on how to help themselves. In includes tips on staying hydrated, what signs of heat stroke and exhaustion look like, ways to stay cool, precautionary measures for hot weather, food-care tips, and ways to avoid heat-related illness.
“The publication also includes information on caring for your pets in hot weather,” Vicari said. “We have to remember to pay attention to the needs of our animals to keep them safe and healthy during the summer months too.”
Through this service, you can find information on the County’s “Register Ready” program that provides special assistance in emergencies. An application can be obtained by calling the Office of Emergency Management at 1-800-331-8152.
Jersey Central Power and Light (JCP&L) and Atlantic City Electric also remind residents to prepare for summer storms and potential power outages. Report a power outage or an electrical emergency to JCP&L at 1-888-544-4877 or Atlantic City Electric at 1-800-833-7476.
“The summer season is a great time of year to get outdoors and enjoy all that Ocean County has to offer,” said Ocean County Freeholder Director Gerry P. Little. “But we also have to realize it is important to know our limits when participating in warm weather activities.”
For more information or to read “Beat the Heat,” visit the Ocean County Seniors Services web page at co.ocean.nj.us or call Senior Services at 732-929-2091.
