Tips For Staying Safe During Heat Wave, Cooling Center Locations

East Haven CT

11 August, 2021

10:22 AM

Description

EAST HAVEN, CT – Mayor Joseph A. Carfora is advising East Haven residents, particularly those who are among the most vulnerable, to take precautions ahead of the high temperatures that are forecast to impact the state from Wednesday through Friday night. Cooling centers are opening across the state to help provide protection from the extreme conditions, Carfora said. The National Weather Service says the heat index temperatures for New Haven and nearby communities like East Haven may see heat indexes of 100 degrees. National Weather Service screenshotAnyone in need of a place to get out of the heat can locate their nearest cooling center by calling 2-1-1. "I want to remind everyone, especially those most vulnerable to take precautions, stay inside, hydrate and do not overexert yourself outside in these extreme temperatures," Carfora was quoted as saying in a news release. "The very young and elderly as well as those with respiratory illnesses are particularly at risk to heat related injuries." East Haven officials including emergency management provide the following advice. Although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others: Infants and young children are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids. People 65 years of age or older may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to change in temperature. People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat. People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat. Tips to beat the heat from the United Way of Connecticut/211: If you are exposed to high temperatures and humidity for too long, you sweat heavily, and don't drink enough fluids, your natural cooling system may fail, it's noted. The result may be a heat-related illness, which include: Heat Cramps Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms-usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs-that may occur in association with strenuous activity. Heat cramps may also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. If you have heart problems or are on a low-sodium diet, seek medical attention for heat cramps. Heat ExhaustionHeat exhaustion is a milder form of heart-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Elderly people and those with high blood pressure, and those working or exercising in a hot environment are most prone to heat exhaustion. Heat stroke Heat stroke is the most serious-heart related illness. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature: the body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106 degrees or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection offer the following tips during extreme high temperatures: Slow down, and avoid strenuous activity.Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect heat and sunlight and help maintain normal body temperature. Protect your face with a wide-brimmed hat.Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you don't feel thirsty.Limit intake of alcoholic beverages. They can actually dehydrate your body.Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.Stay indoors as much as possible.If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Electric fans do not cool the air, but they do help evaporate sweat, which cools your body.Go to a place where you can get relief from the heat, such as air conditioned schools, libraries, theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities that may offer refuge during the warmest times of the day.Cover windows that get morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers. Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percentAvoid too much sunshine. Sunburn slows the skin's ability to cool itself. If you are outside, use sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating.Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.Do not leave pets outside for extended periods. Make sure pets have plenty of drinking water.Check on family, friends, and neighbors regularly.