Excessive Heat Warning Continues

The mercury shot past the 100-degree mark Friday and Saturday is expected to be every bit the scorcher as a brutal heat wave continues to punish the region. The National Weather Service has an Excessive Heat Warning in place until 8 p.m.

As the NWS reported, "Dangerous heat and humidity continues to impact the region. Oppressive heat and humidity will remain in place through Saturday."

Heat index values will soar as high as 115 degrees, according to the weather service.

This means dangerous conditions for everyone, especially the elderly, young children and people with respiratory ailments.

The NWS shared these keep-cool tips: 

• If it's possible to stay out of the heat, do it.  Even 15 minutes in the brutal sun can cause serious health conditions. 
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate.
• Stay in air conditioning.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
• Check on relatives and neighbors, particularly if they are elderly or if they suffer from chronic respiratory illnesses.
• Keep pets in a cool location with plenty of water available.

If you or someone nearby has difficulty breathing or experiences chest pains, call 911 right away. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can kill if not taken seriously.

A dangerous heat wave also means means electricity is in high demand as Parsippany residents get needed relief from the oppressive heat. Jersey Central Power and Light says the township so far has been fortunate. Increased usage of air conditioning and electric fans has not had a signficantly negative impact in the area.

JCP&L spokesperson Ron Morano reported "scattered" power outages in the Parsippany area, but said, "There have been no significant or extended problems."

Of course, any heat wave drives electric bills upward. Morano said JCP&L encourages customers to follow "common sense" tips to conserve energy and save money.

• Use major appliances after dark.
• Turn off unnecessary lights and electrical devices, including computers.

Another way to save on electric bills is to get out of the house (and into another cool place quickly). Give your air conditioner a break for a few hours and partake of the coolness in nearby communal settings such as the Parsippany Free Library and its Mount Tabor and Lake Hiawatha branches. Take in a movie or two at Clearview Cinemas 12 (the new Harry Potter, Captain America, Friends with Benefits and Winnie the Pooh are among what's being screened). Or hit a local pool such as you'll find at the Lake Parsippany Swim Club or the Lakeland Hills YMCA.