Durham health officials ask people to 'remain alert' during heat advisory

"Drink plenty of water, wear light colored clothing and stay indoors," said Eric Nickens, an official with the health department.

Nickens and his peers are collaborating with emergency medical responders and other officials to protect Durham residents while the area is under a heat advisoy.

"We are working to make sure people are aware of what's going on and know what precautions they should be taking in this extreme heat," he said.

Nickens suggests that, during the intense heat, people should check on senior citizens, people with disabilities and kids to make sure their air conditioning units are working properly and that they are staying properly hydrated.

According to Nickens, the health department receives frequent calls from people with concerns about these populations during times of intense heat.

He also suggests that people contact Durham's social services department at 919-560-8000 if they can't afford to pay for utilities or if they need to find a cool place.

The Durham Public Health Department asks all residents to monitor social media and local news outlets to remain alert during heat advisories.