Cooling Centers Activated In Norwalk Amid Hot Temperatures

NORWALK, CT — Mayor Harry Rilling announced Thursday morning that cooling centers in Norwalk are available throughout the community amid expected hot temperatures throughout the day.

According to a news release provided by the city, the cooling centers have been activated as heat index values are expected to reach a high of 95 degrees Thursday.

The hot temperatures and high humidity can potentially cause heat-related illness, especially for vulnerable populations, and the city encourages everyone to stay hydrated and limit strenuous exercise outdoors Thursday.

"Given the increased heat and humidity, I want to remind everyone to stay hydrated and in cool environments today," Rilling said in a news release. "If you or your loved ones need a place to stay cool, we have activated several cooling centers, such as the Main Branch Library, SoNo Branch Library and the Norwalk Police Department Community Room. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity can make some more vulnerable to heat than others. I ask that you please check on loved ones, especially those who may be at greater risk to the heat, and make sure your pets aren't left outside for an extended period of time."

According to Rilling, homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures.

Anyone in need of a place to get out of the heat can go to one of the following cooling centers across Norwalk or call 2-1-1 to locate the nearest cooling center:

• Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Thursday: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Norwalk Police Department Community Room (1 Monroe Street)

• Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week

The City encourages residents to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendations to monitor those at high risk from the heat.

While anyone can suffer from heat-related illness at any time, some people are at greater risk than others:

• Infants and young children
• People 65 years of age or older
• People who are overweight
• People who overexert during work or exercise
• People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia or poor circulation

• Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun’s energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.
• Drink water. Carry water with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
• Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
• Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.
• Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool; they circulate the air.
• Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.
• Be mindful. Never leave persons, especially children and pets, in a closed or parked vehicle.
• Don't get too much sun. Sunburn makes cooling down much more difficult.
• Stay cool. If there is no air conditioning or fans in your home, consider visiting with friends or family that have air-conditioning or one of the city's cooling centers mentioned above.

More information is available at www.ready.gov/heat.