Boston on the Verge of Declaring Heat Emergency

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh says he will declare a heat emergency after temperatures in the city have reached 90 degrees or higher for three or more consecutive days.

In the event a heat emergency is declared, cooling centers will be opened up at several Boston locations.

Walsh is urging residents to take the proper precautions amid the heat and humidity that’s forecasted through the end of the week.

Residents can receive emergency alerts by phone, email or text by signing up for Alert Boston.

The mayor’s office released the following safety tips:

Heat Safety:

• Adults and children should use sunscreen containing an SPF-15 or higher and wear protective, loose fitting clothing, including long sleeve shirts and hats.
• The elderly, young children and those with chronic medical conditions are more susceptible to the effects of heat. Always check in on family or neighbors who may be at risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke as temperatures climb.
• Children and pets should never be left alone in vehicles, even for short periods of times.
• If you become lightheaded, confused, weak or faint, stop all activity and immediately find shade or a cool area to rest. If symptoms persist, call 911 immediately.
• Limit outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Rest often in shady areas and be extra cautious from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., when the sun’s UV radiation is strongest.
• Drink plenty of fluids regardless of activity level. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine.
• Homeless individuals can become dehydrated rapidly due to a lack of access to water or shelter from the heat. If you observe someone who appears in distress, call 911 immediately.
• If you have a child in your home, use child window guards in addition to screens on any open window on the second story or above. Falls are the leading cause of injury for children under the age of six. Information about low-cost window guards for Boston residents can be found at www.bphc.org/kidscantfly.
• Secure all window air conditioner units according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Playground Safety:

• Children should always wear shoes on playgrounds because surfaces can become extremely hot and cause burns, even splash pads and spray decks.

Mosquitoes and Ticks

• If you are in a grassy or wooded area, apply a DEET containing repellent that will protect against mosquitoes AND ticks. Always check yourself, children and pets for ticks after returning indoors and remove attached ticks immediately using tweezers. Mosquito bites can spread West Nile virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), while attached ticks can spread Lyme disease.
• Wear long sleeve shirts, long pants and socks to prevent mosquito bites. Limit your time outdoors between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active and apply an approved mosquito repellent.

Places to stay cool:

• Boston Centers for Youth & Families operates 17 pools and one beach for families looking to cool off in the summer heat. To find the pool or beach nearest you, visit www.cityofboston.gov/BCYF/ or http://www.cityofboston.gov/heat/staycool.asp.