Residents Advised to Take Precautions During Extreme Heat

With the possiblity of near record-high temperatures forecasted for Tuesday and temperatures expected to reach the low 90's again on Wednesday, residents are advised to be cautious during this period of extreme heat.

“A few simple steps can greatly reduce heat related issues, especially for the elderly, the very young and people with respiratory ailments, who are more susceptible to the effects of high temperature,” DESPP Deputy Commissioner William P. Shea said in a press release.

The high temperatures and humidity are no stranger to the area in recent weeks as inland Connecticut has had four heat waves - three days of 90-plus temperatures - and is currently in what is forecast to be its fifth. East Hampton and Portland residents are reminded to utilize municipal buildings such as the library, senior center and even town hall should conditions become too difficult.

The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection offers the following tips during extreme high temperatures:

• Slow down, and avoid strenuous activity.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect heat and sunlight and help maintain normal body temperature. Protect your face with a wide-brimmed hat.
• Drink plenty of water regularly and often, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Limit intake of alcoholic beverages. They can actually dehydrate your body.
• Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.
• Stay indoors as much as possible
• If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Electric fans do not cool the air, but they do evaporate sweat, which cools your body.
• Go to a place where you can get relief from the heat, such as air conditioned schools, libraries, theaters, shopping malls, and other community facilities that may offer refugee during the warmest time of the day.
• Avoid too much sunshine. Sunburn slows the skin’s ability to cool itself. If you are outside, use sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating.
• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.
• Do not leave pets outside for extended periods. Make sure pets have plenty of drinking water.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors regularly.

An Air Quality Alert also has been issued by the National Weather Service. An unhealthy air quality is expected for “sensitive groups” on Tuesday because of elevated concentrations of ground-level ozone pollution. The alert is for Fairfield, New Haven, Middlesex and New London counties. 

A forecast of “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” indicates increased likelihood of respiratory symptoms and breathing discomfort in active children and adults with respiratory disease, such as asthma. 

Health Effects:

Anyone can be affected by ozone, but groups particularly sensitive include children and adults who are active outdoors, and people with respiratory disease, such as asthma. Sensitive people who experience effects at lower ozone concentrations are likely to experience more serious effects at higher concentrations.

What You Can Do to Help:

When air pollution levels are predicted to be “unhealthy for sensitive groups” it is recommended that you:

• Conserve electricity by setting air conditioners to 78 degrees
• “Wait ‘til 8” to use energy intensive appliances like washing machines, dryers and dishwashers
• Drive less by carpooling, vanpooling or using public transit;
• Telecommute if possible;
• Refuel your vehicle after dusk and never idling a vehicle unnecessarily.

The heat wave is expected to break after a low pressure system passes through Wednesday afternoon and evening, which could produce severe storms.

A Hazardous Weather Outlook has been issued by the NWS. Showers and thunderstorms will develop starting around the middle of the day on Wednesday. Damaging winds, frequent lightning strikes and heavy rain resulting in flash flooding is possible.

Press releases included in this article.