Month: July 2025

Gov. Lamont Activates Extreme Hot Weather Protocol Monday

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Cooling Centers Will Open and Can be Located by Visiting 211ct.org or Calling 2-1-1

Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to a weather forecast indicating that Connecticut will experience a multi-day heat wave over the coming week, he is directing the state’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol to be activated effective at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2025, and remaining in effect through at least 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.

During this period, temperatures are expected to reach into the 90s and will be accompanied by humid conditions pushing the heat index near or above 100 degrees.

This is the third time the protocol has been activated this year. The purpose of activating the protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the hot conditions. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies, municipalities, and other partners to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 to make sure that information regarding cooling centers is available statewide, providing a location for those in need of relief.

Cooling centers will be available throughout the state. Anyone in need of a place to get out of the heat can locate their nearest cooling center by viewing the list that will be published online at 211ct.org or calling 2-1-1.

“The forecast is indicating that we are in for another stretch of hot and muggy conditions over the next few days, and we’re working with our partners to open cooling centers,” Governor Lamont said. “We’re advising those who are most vulnerable to extreme conditions, especially seniors and those who have certain disabilities and medical conditions, that they should take precautions to stay hydrated and cool. To locate a nearby cooling center, view the list that will be published online at 211ct.org or call 2-1-1.”

The following actions are implemented while Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol is enacted:

  • The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses its WebEOC communications network, which is an internet-based system that enables local, regional, and state emergency management officials and first responders to share up-to-date information about a variety of situations and conditions.
  • Municipalities and other partners submit information on the opening of cooling centers into the WebEOC, providing a real-time database on the availability of these locations statewide. United Way 2-1-1 uses the system to act as a clearinghouse to assist residents in locating a cooling center.
  • Regional coordinators from the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security monitor WebEOC to respond to any requests from municipalities for state assistance.
  • The energy utility companies provide the state with regular updates regarding the impact of the weather conditions on their respective utilities throughout the duration of the protocol.

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 overexert during work or exercise may become dehydrated and susceptible to heat sickness.
  • People who are physically ill, especially those with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation, may be affected by extreme heat.

Some prevention tips to stay safe in extreme heat include:

  • Keep your body temperature cool to avoid heat-related illness.
  • Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening. Try to rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to cool off.
  • Find an air-conditioned location. (Call 2-1-1 for a list of cooling centers.) Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device.
  • Avoid direct sunlight.
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Take cool showers or baths.
  • Check on those most at-risk several times a day.
  • Pets that cannot be brought indoors should be provided ready access to water and shade to keep them cool.
  • Never leave pets inside of parked vehicles because temperatures can soar to life-threatening levels within minutes.

Everyone is also reminded to stay hydrated during periods of extreme heat. As we lose fluid through sweat, dehydration is common during very high temperatures. It is strongly encouraged to:

  • Drink more water than usual.
  • Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink more fluids.
  • Drink two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.
  • Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
  • Remind others to drink enough water.

More from the Uncas Health District

Drowning Prevention: The Hidden Danger Swimming in Crowded Places

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crowded beach

In the summer months, it’s common to head to public pools, lakes, and beaches to enjoy time with family and friends. But amidst the laughter, music, and splashing, the reality of drowning needs to be top of mind, especially in a crowded environment. Every year in the United States, there are over 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths. More children ages 1-4 die from drowning than from any other cause of death.

The Quiet Reality of Drowning

Drowning doesn’t always look like we think it does. There’s no loud thrashing, no dramatic cries for help. In fact, it often happens quickly and quietly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury death in the United States, especially for children under 14. And the presence of crowds can ironically make it harder — not easier — to spot someone in distress.

In busy public pools or popular beaches, distractions are everywhere: kids playing, floaties drifting, music blaring. Even trained lifeguards can find it challenging to monitor every individual amid dozens or even hundreds of swimmers. A child or adult in trouble may slip under the surface unnoticed for precious seconds—sometimes too long to recover.

Why Crowded Places Pose Unique Risks

In crowded aquatic environments, the signs of drowning can blend in with ordinary activity:

  • A swimmer may appear to be bobbing playfully when they’re actually struggling to stay afloat.

  • Someone with a medical condition — such as a seizure disorder — may quietly lose consciousness in the water.

  • Children may move out of sight behind inflatables, under diving boards, or into deeper water without being noticed.

That’s why vigilance and prevention must go hand-in-hand in crowded settings.

How to Stay Safe: Prevention Tips from the CDC

The CDC offers several critical recommendations to reduce drowning risk, particularly when swimming in groups or public places:

  • Always Swim with a Buddy: Never swim alone, regardless of your age or skill level. The buddy system ensures that someone is always there to notice and respond if something goes wrong. This is especially vital for individuals with medical conditions that could lead to sudden loss of consciousness.

  • Choose Sites with Lifeguards: While no environment is risk-free, swimming in places where trained lifeguards are present significantly improves safety. Lifeguards are skilled at spotting trouble and responding quickly—skills that can make all the difference.

  • Supervise Children Closely: Never assume that someone else is watching your child. Designate a “Water Watcher”—an adult who is not drinking, reading, or scrolling their phone—to keep eyes on swimmers at all times.

  • Know the Signs of Drowning: Unlike Hollywood portrayals, real-life drowning can look like gasping, quiet bobbing, or sudden stillness. Learning what to watch for can help you intervene faster.

  • Avoid Alcohol When Swimming or Supervising: Alcohol impairs judgment, balance, and reaction time. Save the celebratory drinks for after you’ve left the water.

Be Prepared, Stay Aware

Drowning is preventable, but only if we remain alert and informed. Whether you’re at a packed beach, a neighborhood pool party, or a waterpark, don’t let the comfort of crowds create a false sense of security. Tragedies often occur in these environments when we assume someone else is paying attention.

Stay safe this summer. Swim smart, look out for each other, and always keep your eyes on the water.

More From the Uncas Health District

CT Horse and Livestock Owners Advised to Guard Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases

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Woman caring for horse in stable.

Preventative Measures are Key to Protection

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture (CT DoAg) reminds the state’s horse and livestock community to take preventative measures to protect against mosquito-borne diseases this season, including West Nile virus (WNV) and eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). While Connecticut has not had any reported human or horse cases this season, the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) confirmed detections of WNV-infected mosquitoes in Bridgeport and Stamford beginning in June. Additionally, earlier this week, a goat in Worcester County, Massachusetts, was infected with West Nile virus.

“Recent weather conditions, particularly heat and humidity, are creating an ideal environment for mosquito activity, which increases the need for preventative measures to protect animals and those caring for them,” said Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt. “Now is the time to review health records and follow veterinary and medical guidance to safeguard the health of horses and people.”

EEE and WNV are both mosquito-borne diseases that affect horses, birds, and humans. Horses are the domestic animals most susceptible to infection from EEE and WNV; however, other animals such as llamas, alpacas, and goats can also be infected. The viruses cannot spread from animal to animal or from animal to human. They are viral diseases transmitted through mosquito bites. The risk for mosquito-borne diseases continues until the first hard freeze ends mosquito activity.

“We can’t stop mosquitoes, but we can mitigate exposure by applying proven control methods, including vaccines, which are highly effective in reducing the severity of symptoms and decreasing the likelihood of death in horses,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Thamus Morgan, DVM, MPH, DACVPM. “More frequent vaccination may be necessary for young or older horses, and sound stable management practices to reduce mosquito breeding sites are advised for all.”

Horse owners are encouraged to implement the following, in coordination with their veterinarian:

  • Administer the initial two-dose vaccine series, four to six weeks apart
  • Administer regular boosters at least annually
  • Consult with your veterinarian if boosters are needed every six months
  • Give vaccinations at least one month prior to mosquito season to develop protective immunity
  • Remove sources of standing water to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds
  • Clean and refill water troughs regularly
  • Apply fly sprays containing pyrethrin regularly

If your horse is showing neurologic signs, such as hyperexcitability, tremors, convulsions, paralysis, head tilt, head pressing, incoordination, drowsiness, recumbency, colic, or death, it’s important to call a veterinarian to determine a diagnosis and treatment.

If you suspect your horse may have EEE or WNV, contact your veterinarian immediately. They are both reportable diseases to the State Veterinarian at 860-713-2505. For more information on animals and animal health, visit the state website.

Visit the Connecticut Mosquito Management Program website for information on WNV and EEE, what can be done to prevent mosquito bites, the latest mosquito test results, and human infections.

Flash Floods — Keeping Safe in Rapidly Rising Flood Waters

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Car submerged in flood waters.

Flash floods can strike with little warning and devastating force. This summer’s catastrophic flash floods in central Texas — where more than 100 lives were lost over the July 4th weekend — remind us how quickly deadly waters can form and sweep away everything in their path. The communities of Uncas Health District and its river valleys, brooks, and low‐lying areas can flood just as rapidly when heavy storms stall overhead. Understanding where you’re most vulnerable and how to respond can mean the difference between life and death.

If You Hear a Flash Flood Warning

A Flash Flood Warning means flooding is already occurring or imminent. Do not wait — act immediately:

  • Move to higher ground. Even a few feet of elevation can save your life.
  • Avoid floodwaters. Do not walk, swim, or drive through moving water. Six inches can knock you off your feet; two feet can carry away most vehicles.
  • Tune in. Use NOAA Weather Radio, local news, or smartphone alerts for updates.
  • Check on neighbors. Especially those who are elderly, disabled, or may not receive alerts.
  • If roads are blocked, turn around and find an alternate route—never attempt to “beat the water.”

Preparing in Advance: Build Your Flash Flood Response

By planning now, you’ll be ready to move fast when storms hit. Consider these steps:

  • Know your flood risk. Consult FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps or your town’s floodplain manager to see if your property lies in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
  • Create an emergency kit. Include water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, and important documents sealed in waterproof bags.
  • Establish an evacuation plan. Identify higher-ground shelters, safe routes (avoiding known low bridges and dips), and a family meeting spot.
  • Elevate critical utilities. Move appliances, heating systems, and electrical panels above the expected flood depth.
  • Purchase flood insurance. Standard homeowners’ policies don’t cover flood damage, and NFIP policies have a 30-day waiting period, so act early.
  • Stay connected. Sign up for CTAlert and your town’s local emergency notifications.
  • Practice your plan once or twice a year so everyone knows what to do without hesitation.

Flash flood warning sign

What Not to Do During Flash Flooding

Avoid these common — but-potentially-deadly mistakes:

  • Don’t drive into flooded roadways. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” isn’t just a slogan—it saves lives.
  • Don’t underestimate shallow water. Even a foot of fast-moving water can carry away a small SUV.
  • Don’t walk near culverts or storm drains. Currents can sweep you under in seconds.
  • Don’t let children play near rushing brooks. What looks like a fun stream can turn into a drowning hazard.
  • Don’t wait for official evacuation orders if water is rising fast — local responders may not reach every neighborhood in time.

Stay Vigilant and Prepared

Flash flooding is a natural hazard that can happen extremely fast, and as extreme precipitation events become more frequent, the risks grow. By understanding the specific vulnerabilities in the area, heeding official warnings, and preparing in advance, you’ll be ready to protect yourself, your family, and your community. When storms roll in, remember the lessons of the tragedy in Texas: swift water is immensely powerful, and seconds count. Stay safe, stay informed, and move to higher ground without delay when floods threaten.