CANTON — Chief Charles Doody and the Canton Fire Department would like to remind residents to take safety precautions during activities in hot weather and share cooling center information for residents.
Temperatures are once again forecast to be in the upper-80s and 90s over the next several days, with heat index values up to 104 expected. A heat advisory has been issued for the area from 11 a.m. Thursday to 8 p.m. Friday.
Cooling Information
Residents in need of a break from the heat this week can visit the Canton Public Library, which is a designated cooling center. The library’s hours can be found here.
Senior residents can also visit the Canton Senior Center, 500 Pleasant St., Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The Town of Canton Bolivar Pool, located at 199 Bolivar St., is also open. Pool passes can be obtained by contacting the Canton Parks and Recreation Department at 781-821-5030 or by visiting cantonrec.com. Residents can also purchase a day pass for the pool. Pool hours are Monday through Sunday, 1-6:30 p.m. The pool’s Splash Pad is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and on weekends from 1-6:30 p.m.
Heat Safety Tips
Residents are reminded of the follow safety tips for hot weather, courtesy the American Red Cross and National Safety Council:
- Drink plenty of fluids, like water, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid alcoholic beverages, drinks with caffeine and large amounts of sugar — these actually cause you to lose more body fluid.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out.
- If you’re outside, find shade and minimize direct exposure to the sun.
- Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, which is typically around 3 p.m.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes.
- Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
- Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
- If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like libraries, theaters, malls, etc.
- Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach over 100 degrees, even on a 70 degree day.
- Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water.
- Watch for signs of heat illness. If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke seek emergency medical care immediately.
- For parents: avoid burns. If playground equipment is hot to the touch, it is too hot for your child’s bare skin.
Additional Tips for Seniors:
Residents are encouraged to check on elderly family members and neighbors, especially those who live alone, those with medical conditions and those who may need additional assistance. Heatstroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration can be particularly dangerous for the elderly population.
For more information on how older residents can stay safe during extreme heat, helpful information is available from AARP.
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