Here's How To Stay Cool In Newton

NEWTON, MA — With the mercury expected to climb into the 90s Monday, and the heat index expected to feel around 101 Monday afternoon, Newton Mayor Fuller and the Newton Police are alerting residents to keep cool and to check in on elderly or less mobile neighbors. Don't ever leave a pet in a car and

Air conditioned public places to get a break from the heat:

• The Newton Free Library: Check out a book and stay cool Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m.at 5 p.m..

• The Senior Center at 345 Walnut Street, and open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Take a dip at the Gath Pool or Crystal Lake

• The city has added extra staff in anticipation of more swimmers this week.
• Gath Pool is open this week for recreational swimming from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.. A complete schedule is here.
• Crystal Lake is open tomorrow through Friday from 3 p.m. to dusk. Summer weekday hours begin on Monday, June 25, which are 9:30 a.m. through dusk, and the beach opens at 1:00 p.m. on weekends. A complete schedule for Crystal Lake is here.

• We make sure our City employees also stay safe. We have protocols in place for those who work outside, and they'll be pulled off outside jobs on Monday as the temperatures rise.

What about high electricity costs at City Hall with all that AC?

The Mayor said to help reduce electricity costs, and the city's carbon footprint during peak demand periods, the plan is to turn thermostats to 74-76 degrees, shut off air conditioners in offices at the end of the day, and pulling down shades.

How to prevent heat-related illness:

The experts suggest drinking plenty of cool fluids, and keeping the strenuous activity outdoors to a minimum. Never leave children or pets unattended in a car, even with the windows open. If you see a pet in a car, don't hesitate to call Newton Police.

Photos by Jenna Fisher/Patch