Rising Heat Brings Dangerous Conditions

As the mercury creeps close to the mid-90's for the third day in a row, many are concerned about safety.

In Arlington, the Board of Health Director Christine Connolly reminded people concerned about the heat that both the Robbins Library and the Fox Community Center were open late tonight. Robbins is open until 9 p.m. and Fox until 8 p.m. and both have air conditioning.

Spy Pond is closed for today only, but Connolly suggested that staying indoors and keeping out of the direct sunlight was better anyway. 

Though the Board usually sends out a beat the heat postcard, it was eliminated this year "due to budget cuts," said Connolly.

Connolly said the postcard offers the following tips:

• Do not engage in strenuous activities
• Remain indoors during the hottest part of the day – 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Take a cool shower or bath
• Drink cool non-alcoholic, caffeine-free beverages (consult your physician)
• Rest
• Avoid using the oven
• Keep shades drawn during the day
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
• Use fans to circulate the air

It also offers tips for recognizing the signs of heat stroke and exhaustion:

• heavy sweating
• fainting, paleness
• tiredness, weakness
• nausea, muscle cramps
• dizziness
• headache
• rapid pulse

Seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stoke, said Connolly.