Simsbury Opens Cooling Center as Heat and Humidity Grip Region (Again)

SIMSBURY, CT — The Town of Simsbury is encouraging residents to take precautions during this week's heat wave as Connecticut's Extreme Hot Weather Protocol remains in effect through 5 p.m. Thursday, July 16.

In a public notice issued Tuesday, the town's Department of Community and Social Services said temperatures are expected to be intensely hot and humid through Thursday and reminded residents to take steps to avoid heat-related illness.

Gov. Ned Lamont activated the statewide Extreme Hot Weather Protocol beginning Tuesday morning. Residents seeking a cooling center can call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org to locate the nearest available site.

In Simsbury, officials noted that the Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St., is available as a place to cool off during its regular business hours:

• Monday-Thursday: 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The library is closed on Sundays during the summer.

The town also encouraged residents to:

• Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
• Use fans and keep shades or curtains closed during the day to help keep homes cooler.
• Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure if spending time outdoors.
• Schedule outdoor activities during the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower.

For those who want to be outside, officials suggested taking advantage of shaded public spaces, including the pavilions at Town Forest, Tariffville Park and Hop Brook Landing, as well as trails in Ethel Walker Woods and Simsbury's state parks. The town also noted that Simsbury Farms Pool and Memorial Pool are open.

Officials urged residents to check on elderly family members and neighbors and to never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle.

For additional information about heat-related resources, residents may contact the Simsbury Community and Social Services Department at 860-658-3283 during business hours. For emergencies, residents should call 911.

For the State of Connecticut announcement regarding hot weather protocols, click on this link.