heat advisory

Extreme Hot Weather Protocol Activated — What You Need to Know

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Woman drinking water in heat wave

With temperatures expected to reach the mid-to-upper 80s for several consecutive days this week, Governor Ned Lamont has activated the state’s “Extreme Hot Weather Protocol”  to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the hot conditions. The protocol goes into effect at noon on Tuesday, June 18, and will remain in effect through noon on Sunday, June 23.

Staying Cool During the Heatwave

Those in the Uncas Health District can find a continuously updated list of available cooling centers by calling 2-1-1 or visiting 211ct.org. Additionally, St. Vincent de Paul Place in Norwich will be open as a cooling center starting at 6:30 a.m. each day through Saturday.

Taking Precautions

Extreme heat can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Here are some essential precautions to take during the heatwave:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive amounts of alcohol, as they can dehydrate you.
  • Stay Cool Indoors: Limit strenuous activity outdoors, especially during peak heat hours (typically between 10 am and 4 pm). If you don’t have air conditioning, spend time in public libraries, shopping malls, or cooling centers.
  • Dress for the Weather: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton.
  • Protect Yourself from the Sun: Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and wear a wide-brimmed hat whenever outdoors.
  • Never Leave Children or Pets Unattended in Vehicles: This can be deadly, even for short periods.

Recognizing Heat-Related Illness

It’s important to be aware of the signs of heat-related illness, which can range from mild to life-threatening. Here’s what to watch for:

  • Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and cold, clammy skin.
  • Heatstroke: This is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. Signs include a high body temperature (above 103°F), confusion, disorientation, seizures, and a rapid, weak pulse.

If you experience any concerning symptoms, move to a cool place, remove excess clothing, and drink fluids. In severe cases, call 911 immediately.

By following these tips and staying informed, you can stay safe and healthy during this heatwave. Let’s work together to beat the heat and ensure a comfortable week for everyone in Connecticut.

Additional Tips From the Department of Public Health

Norwich Cooling Center to open for forecasted extreme heat September 5-7

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heat advisory

With temperatures expected to reach the low 90s this week, the Norwich Cooling Center at the Rose City Senior Center will be open 5:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 5, Wednesday, Sept. 6, and Thursday, Sept. 7. The cooling center, located at 8 Mahan Drive in Norwich, has a capacity of 200.

Additionally, the Connecticut Department of Health has issued a reminder to all state residents to be very cautious when outside and to make sure they remain cool and hydrated.

From the DPH:

With temperatures anticipated to rise close to or into the low 90s this week, Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, is reminding individuals who will be spending time outside or in non-air-conditioned spaces to be cautious during periods of intense heat during the day.

The current forecast indicates that temperatures over this period will rise close to or into the low 90s, and the heat index is expected to reach into the mid-90s in certain inland areas of the state. On Monday, Governor Ned Lamont announced that he is directing Connecticut’s extreme hot weather protocol to be activated effective at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 5, and remaining in effect through 8 pm. on Thursday, Sept. 7.

“While Labor Day signals the unofficial end of summer, that doesn’t mean that we won’t continue to see high temperatures that will feel very hot and humid,” said Commissioner Juthani. “During this heat wave, residents should stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in cooler air-conditioned/shaded areas, and limit the time spent in direct sun. Additionally, more physical tasks should take place in the morning or evening, when the sun is less intense, and temperatures are cooler.”

Commissioner Juthani added that those who are experiencing heat stress should call for medical assistance immediately. Although anyone can be affected by heat-stress, those working outside are at a particularly high risk including:

  • Older individuals (over 65 years of age) who may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature
  • Those performing frequent high-exertion tasks (lifting, digging, walking) who may become dehydrated quickly and experience more intense heat stress
  • Those who have underlying health conditions, especially heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, or who take certain medications that put them at risk

 Follow the steps below to stay cool and hydrated while working in the heat:

 Stay Cool

Keep your body temperature cool to avoid heat-related illness.

  • Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If you must work outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to the mornings and evenings.
  • Avoid working in direct sunlight and wear lightweight, light-colored, and moisture-wicking clothing.
  • Check on family members, especially those most at risk often.
  • If you feel ill working in the heat, notify a family member and stop working.

Stay Hydrated

Because your body loses fluids through sweat, you can become dehydrated during times of extreme heat.

  • Drink more water than usual; do not wait until you are thirsty to drink more liquids.
  • Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages.
  • Drink about four cups of water every hour while working outside.
  • Remind others to drink enough water.

 

For more information about steps that employers and workers can take to reduce the risk of heat-related illness, contact the Connecticut Department of Public Health’s Occupational Health Program at (860) 509-7740 or email dph.occhealth@ct.gov.

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