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September is Suicide Prevention Month: You’re Not Alone, and Help is Here

September 12, 2025 by Uncas Health District

If you’re struggling with depression, thoughts of suicide, or just feeling overwhelmed by stress — please know this: you are not alone, and help is available 24/7. Reaching out is a sign of strength. Below you’ll find compassionate, practical steps and trusted resources in Connecticut and nationwide to support you or someone you care about.

If You Need Help Right Now

Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org, 24/7, for free, confidential support from trained counselors. Help is available in English and Spanish; when calling for Spanish, press 2. Veterans can dial 988, then press 1, or text 838255 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.
In Connecticut, adults (18+) can also call the ACTION Line: 1-800-HOPE-135 (800-467-3135) or 2-1-1 for immediate support and warm transfers to mobile crisis teams. Youth under 18 can reach Mobile Crisis by dialing 2-1-1.
For substance use treatment access in CT (including detox and transportation), call the Access Line: 1-800-563-4086.
If someone is in imminent danger, call 911.

Prefer to communicate in Spanish? 988 offers 24/7 Spanish-language support by phone (press 2) and text instructions to connect with a Spanish-speaking counselor.

Why Suicide Prevention Month Matters

Suicide is preventable. Caring conversations, safer environments, and easy access to support save lives. Public health approaches focus on connection, early help, and reducing access to lethal means (like safely storing medications and firearms). Simple actions — checking in on a friend, offering to call 988 together, removing or locking up medications and firearms—can make a life-saving difference. (For local safe-storage options like medication disposal or lockboxes, check your local health district or police department.)

Signs Someone Might be Struggling

Everyone’s experience is different, but common warning signs include:

Talking about hopelessness, feeling like a burden, or wanting to die
Withdrawing from friends or usual activities
Changes in sleep, appetite, or mood (more irritable, anxious, or numb)
Increased use of alcohol or other substances
Searching for ways to harm oneself

If you notice these signs, reach out. You don’t need perfect words—try, “I’m really glad you told me. I care about you. Let’s find support together,” and offer to contact 988 or a CT crisis line with them.

How to Help — Practical Steps

Ask directly and listen. “Are you thinking about suicide?” Asking does not plant the idea; it opens the door to help.
Stay with them (or on the phone) and reduce immediate risks. If possible, secure medications and firearms or ask a trusted person to help.
Connect to professional support. Call or text 988, or in Connecticut, use ACTION Line (1-800-HOPE-135) for adults or 2-1-1 for youth mobile crisis. Offer warm handoffs (e.g., dial together and stay on the line).
Follow up. A caring text or visit in the days after a crisis matters.

Connecticut Resources

ACTION Line (Adults, 18+): 24/7 crisis support, referrals, and warm transfers to Mobile Crisis: 1-800-HOPE-135 or 2-1-1.
Mobile Crisis for Youth (Under 18) – Call 2-1-1 for on-site/phone support statewide.
CT DMHAS Crisis Services – Overview of adult mobile crisis, 988 in CT, and resources.
Prevent Suicide CT (CTSAB) – Statewide prevention materials, trainings, and ways to get involved.
NAMI Connecticut – Education, support groups, and a help line for information (not a crisis line).

National Resources

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org for anyone in the U.S., any time.
Veterans Crisis Line – Dial 988, then press 1, text 838255, or chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat
Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 to reach a volunteer crisis counselor; additional specialized keyword options (e.g., for financial stress) may be available.
The Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth) – 24/7 support via call 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678-678, or chat online. (Note: the 988 “Press 3” LGBTQ+ subline ended on July 17, 2025; inclusive support remains available at 988 and through Trevor.)
Trans Lifeline — A peer support line run by and for trans people: 1-877-565-8860. (Check current hours on their site.)

For Our Communities: Prevention is a Shared Effort

Normalize check-ins. Ask friends, coworkers, and family how they’re really doing.
Promote safe storage. Encourage lockboxes for medications and firearm locking devices. Many local health departments and police departments provide free locks or disposal options.
Share resources. Post 988 and local CT crisis numbers at workplaces, schools, faith communities, and on social media.
Learn a skill. Consider trainings like QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) or Mental Health First Aid through local partners listed on Prevent Suicide CT.

Help Save Lives with CT’s New Life-Saving Hotline

September 4, 2025 by Uncas Health District

Every second counts in an overdose. That’s why we’re sharing an important free life-saving resource now available to the communities you serve: SafeSpot, a confidential overdose prevention hotline.

By calling 800-972-0590, individuals are connected with a trained operator who will:

Stay on the line while they use
Ask for their location in case they stop responding
Call for help immediately if an overdose is suspected

As you know, a person experiencing an overdose can’t administer life-saving medication like naloxone (NARCAN® Nasal Spray) to themselves. SafeSpot is here when others can’t be.

Please share this number widely with your teams and the individuals you support.

To help you spread the word, we’ve created a free toolkit that includes a range of social media assets. You can access the materials on the LiveLOUD Toolkit and search under “harm reduction”.

Help us reduce overdose deaths and ensure no one is ever truly alone.

Your Ultimate 2025-26 Connecticut Back-to-School Health & Safety Guide

August 21, 2025August 7, 2025 by Uncas Health District

As August winds down and the new school year is just around the corner, now is the perfect time for families to take steps to make sure every student starts the year safe, happy, and healthy. This updated guide covers everything you need — from required vaccines to mental wellness and bus safety — to set your child up for success.

Get Caught Up on Required Immunizations

Connecticut state law requires students to have up-to-date vaccinations before entering school. These vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect your child and the entire school community from serious, preventable diseases. Even if your child seems healthy, missing shots can mean missing school.

Vaccine	Grade(s) Required	Why It's Important
DTaP/DTP/DT	Pre-K (4 doses), K-6 (≥4 doses)	Protects against Diphtheria, Tetanus (lockjaw), and Pertussis (whooping cough), which can be life-threatening.
Tdap (Adolescent booster)	Grade 7–12 (1 dose)	A crucial booster to maintain protection as childhood immunity wanes.
MMR	Pre-K (1 dose), K-12 (2 doses)	Prevents highly contagious Measles, Mumps, and Rubella, which can have serious complications like pneumonia and encephalitis.
Varicella (Chickenpox)	Pre-K (1 dose), K-12 (2 doses)	Protects against the itchy and sometimes severe chickenpox virus, which can cause skin infections and pneumonia.
Hepatitis B	Pre-K through Grade 12 (3 doses)	Prevents a serious liver infection that can become chronic and lead to liver cancer.
Hepatitis A	Pre-K through Grade 12 (2 doses)	Prevents a contagious liver infection that spreads easily in schools, especially since young children may not show symptoms.
Polio	Pre-K through Grade 12 (≥3 doses)	Protects against a crippling and potentially fatal disease that has been eliminated in the U.S. thanks to vaccination.
MenACWY (Meningococcal)	Grade 7–12 (1 dose)	Protects against a leading cause of bacterial meningitis, a serious infection of the brain and spinal cord lining.
HPV	Grades 7–12 (Strongly Recommended)	A cancer-prevention vaccine that helps prevent several types of cancer later in life.

Annual Check-Ups & Mandated Screenings

Beyond vaccines, routine well-child visits are essential for a healthy school year.

Vision & Hearing Screening: State law mandates these screenings for students in kindergarten, first, third, fourth, and fifth grades to detect issues that can impact learning.
Dental Check-Up: Good oral health is linked to overall well-being. Schedule a cleaning and exam before school starts.
Asthma & Allergy Action Plans: If your child has asthma or severe allergies, update their inhalers, EpiPens, and emergency plans with the school nurse. Share any food allergy information with teachers and cafeteria staff.

Build Healthy Routines from Day One

A strong routine and self-care go a long way in keeping kids physically and emotionally ready to learn.

Sleep Schedule: To support learning and emotional regulation, aim for 9–11 hours per night for elementary students and 8–10 hours for teens.
Balanced Breakfast: Fuel up with protein and fiber to boost focus and energy.
Hydration: Staying hydrated improves brain function. Pack a reusable water bottle every day!
Hand-Washing: Proper hand-washing (20 seconds with soap and water!) is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs.

Prioritize Mental & Emotional Wellness

A happy school year is more than academics — it’s about feeling supported and connected.

Open Conversations: Create a safe space for your child to talk about their feelings. The Jed Foundation offers great conversation starters for parents of teens.
Bullying Prevention: Talk to your children about bullying and what to do if they see or experience it. For resources and information on Connecticut's anti-bullying laws, visit StopBullying.gov.
Know the Resources: Your school counselor and the Uncas Health District are valuable resources if you have concerns about your child's mental health.

Safety on the Way to School

Backpack Safety: An overly heavy or improperly worn backpack can cause pain and posture problems. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a backpack weigh no more than 10-20% of a child's body weight and that both shoulder straps are always used.
Bus Safety: Review getting on/off procedures and staying seated until the bus stops fully.
Walk & Bike Routes: Practice the route to school and always wear a properly fitted helmet when biking.
Car Seat & Booster Seat Safety: Ensure your child's car seat meets current Connecticut standards. For detailed information and to find a local car seat clinic, visit Safe Kids Connecticut.
Teen Driving: Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for teens. Remind new drivers about the risks of distracted and impaired driving.

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CT Leads Nation in MMR Vaccination Rates

August 7, 2025 by Uncas Health District

As families across Connecticut prepare for the new school year, our state can take pride in another public health achievement: Connecticut has the highest two-dose measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination rate in the nation, with 98.3% of kindergarteners up to date in the 2024–2025 school year. This not only reflects the dedication of parents and healthcare providers but underscores the critical role vaccinations play in safeguarding individuals and entire communities from highly contagious diseases like measles.

Why Vaccination Matters

Measles is one of the most infectious diseases known, capable of spreading through tiny respiratory droplets that linger in the air and on surfaces. High vaccination coverage interrupts transmission chains, creating “herd immunity”—a community-level defense that protects those who cannot be vaccinated, including infants, people undergoing chemotherapy, and individuals with certain immune disorders. Public health experts agree that achieving at least 95% MMR coverage is essential to prevent outbreaks; Connecticut stands among only ten states to surpass this threshold this year.

Beyond preventing measles-specific outbreaks, routine immunizations reduce absenteeism, keep schools open, and avoid the personal and societal costs of preventable illness. According to DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, “Staying up to date on routine vaccines, particularly as we head into back-to-school season, is crucial for protecting children from preventable diseases and maintaining community-level immunity."

Staying Vigilant: Keeping Immunizations Current

Even with Connecticut’s success, vaccination rates can fluctuate. Nationally, coverage among kindergartners for vaccines like DTaP and MMR dipped in the past year, highlighting the importance of continued vigilance. To ensure every child has the protection they need:

Check your child’s vaccine record: Parents can securely access school immunization data through the CT WiZ Public Portal at ct.gov/getmyvaccinerecord.
Consult your healthcare provider: Schedule any overdue vaccinations before school begins.
Stay informed: Review the latest CDC recommendations at cdc.gov/vaccines to understand catch-up schedules and booster requirements.

Governor Ned Lamont reminds us that “these vaccinations have been proven to be safe for many decades and are responsible for preventing the spread of life-threatening illnesses. Let’s keep Connecticut healthy by getting vaccinated and stopping the spread of these diseases."

Beyond Vaccines: Other Critical Precautions

While immunization is our strongest defense, combining vaccines with everyday health practices creates a layered approach to disease prevention:

Hand Hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially before meals and after restroom use.
Respiratory Etiquette: To limit droplet spread, cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow—not hands.
Stay Home When Sick: Promptly isolate anyone displaying fever, rash, or respiratory symptoms to avoid exposing others.
Clean Frequently Touched Surfaces: To reduce germ transmission in classrooms and homes, disinfect doorknobs, desks, and shared devices.

Together, these measures help contain outbreaks of various infections— from measles to seasonal flu—and reinforce the protective power of vaccines.

For questions about the Connecticut Vaccine Program, call 860-509-7929 or email [email protected]. Learn more about vaccines and download your immunization records today at ct.gov/getmyvaccinerecord.

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Gov. Lamont Activates Extreme Hot Weather Protocol Monday

July 28, 2025 by Uncas Health District

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.

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Drowning Prevention: The Hidden Danger Swimming in Crowded Places

July 24, 2025 by Uncas Health District

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.

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

July 18, 2025 by Uncas Health District

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

July 10, 2025July 9, 2025 by Uncas Health District

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.

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.

Preparing for Summer Hazards: Heat, Storms, and Power Outages

July 1, 2025June 30, 2025 by Uncas Health District

Summer in New England brings a range of seasonal risks that can quickly escalate into emergencies. Due to climate change, extreme heat, severe thunderstorms, and power outages are all more frequent and dangerous. Preparing ahead of time can reduce harm and ensure that individuals, households, and communities stay safe during these events.

This article outlines key guidance from the American Red Cross on how to prepare for and respond to summer weather hazards.

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States. It is especially dangerous for older adults, infants, people with chronic illnesses, and those without access to air conditioning.

Preventive Measures

Hydration: Drink at least ¾ gallon of water daily per person. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, and alcoholic beverages. If you’re sweating heavily, supplement water with snacks or electrolyte-replacement drinks

Cooling: Air conditioning is the most effective protection. If not available at home, identify and use public cooling centers, libraries, or malls. Electric fans may not be effective once temperatures exceed the high 90s.

Clothing: Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

Activity: Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.

Signs of Heat-Related Illness

Heat cramps: Painful muscle spasms. Treat with hydration and rest in a cool place.

Heat exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and dizziness. Move to a cooler area, loosen clothing, and hydrate. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

Heat stroke: A medical emergency. Symptoms include high body temperature (104°F+), confusion, unconsciousness, and hot, dry skin. Call 911 immediately.

Community Responsibility

Check regularly on older adults, neighbors living alone, and individuals with health conditions during heat events. Ensure pets are not left outside or in vehicles.

Power Outages

Power outages can disrupt cooling, food safety, communication, and access to medical equipment. They often occur alongside storms or extreme heat.

Preparation Steps

Emergency Kits: Maintain a Go-Kit (3 days of supplies) and a Stay-at-Home Kit (2 weeks of supplies), including food, water, medication, backup batteries, and flashlights.

Backup Power: If reliant on electrically powered medical devices, consult your physician about backup power options.

Food Safety: Use thermometers to monitor fridge and freezer temperatures. Discard perishable food if it has been above 40°F for more than two hours.

Safe Heating and Cooking: Never use generators, grills, or gas stoves indoors. Always keep them well-ventilated and outside.

During an Outage

Use flashlights instead of candles to reduce fire risk.
Unplug electronics to prevent surge damage.
If your home becomes unsafe (too hot, too cold, or medically unfit), relocate to a cooling or warming center.

Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms can bring high winds, hail, flash flooding, and dangerous lightning strikes. They also frequently cause power outages and property damage.

Before the Storm

Shelter Location: Identify a sturdy building in advance. Mobile homes, tents, and outbuildings do not offer adequate protection.

Outdoor Items: Secure or bring indoors any items that could become projectiles during high winds (e.g., patio furniture, grills).

Flood Preparation: Ensure gutters and drains are clear. If your home is prone to flooding, consider a sump pump with battery backup and elevate essential utilities.

During the Storm

Move indoors immediately when you hear thunder (“When thunder roars, go indoors”).
Stay away from windows and avoid using electronics plugged into outlets.
Do not bathe, shower, or wash dishes—lightning can travel through plumbing.
Never shelter under trees. Vehicles offer some protection, but should not be your first choice.

Flood Safety

Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas.
Just six inches of water can cause loss of control in vehicles. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

Local Resources

Cooling Centers & Emergency Shelter: Dial 2-1-1 or visit your municipality’s website for locations and hours.
Weather Alerts: Sign up for emergency notifications through your local government or county.
Emergency App: Download the free Red Cross Emergency App for alerts and preparedness checklists at redcross.org/prepare.

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