New Jersey Health Commissioner Renard Washington said the state has reported at least 19 suspected heat-related deaths since July 2. Victims’ ages and locations varied; many were found in homes without air conditioning and several were discovered outdoors, on streets or in parked vehicles. Washington said the fatalities are not limited to the elderly and that heat-related emergency visits have risen this week. He urged residents to stay hydrated, seek cooling and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure

New Jersey Health Commissioner Renard Washington said the state has reported at least 19 suspected heat-related deaths since July 2. Victims’ ages and locations varied; many were found in homes without air conditioning and several were discovered outdoors, on streets or in parked vehicles. Washington said the fatalities are not limited to the elderly and that heat-related emergency visits have risen this week. He urged residents to stay hydrated, seek cooling and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure.