Community Corner

Baby – and Grandma – It's Hot Out There

Residents are urged to beat the heat and take caution as the heat index soars above 105 degrees Thursday and Friday.

There's no doubt about it, temperatures are rising as the dog days of summer arrive.

The National Weather Service has issued excessive heat and air quality warnings, as temperatures will hover in the high 90s Thursday and Friday with a heat index over 105 each day.

Things are going to be hot to say the least.

State and local officials are asking local residents to take precautions, seek out cooler places to spend the day and remain hydrated as the state rides out the mid-summer heat wave.

“The combination of heat and humidity will result in poor air quality and dangerous conditions for the elderly, young children, and those people with respiratory conditions,” Gov. Dannel Malloy said in a press release. “Drinking lots of water and taking cool showers can help lower body temperature, and residents of all ages should call 2-1-1 to find a place to cool down should they need to."

"For those with elderly neighbors, please consider checking in on them during this extreme heat as well," he said.

West Hartford Ron Van Winkle said that while the town does not have any official cooling centers, there are several places that residents can go to beat the heat.

All branches of the , , and the are available during their business hours to residents seeking a place to cool off.   has also set aside a special room for residents who need to cool off in an air conditioned space.

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While it may seem like a good day for the beach, mid-day temperatures will soar and could lead to issues including sun stroke and dehydration.

If you plan to be outside for any period of time, the American Red Cross of Connecticut is urging residents to plan ahead, providing the following tips to avoid heat-related health issues:

  • Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.
  • Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
  • Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
  • Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.
  • Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine.  Remember that electric fans do not cool, they simply circulate the air.
  • Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.

Visit the Red Cross website for more Heat Safety Tips.

Find out what's happening in West Hartfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.


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