The State has issued an unhealthy heat advisory for August 5 – August 11 due to forecasted temperatures exceeding 90 degrees. Residents should avoid overexertion, drink plenty of water, and check in on family and neighbors. During regular business hours, residents may also cool off at the Arlington Reservoir, North Union Spray Park, a local coffee shop or theater, or the Fox or Robbins library. Residents 60 years and older can visit the Community Center at 27 Maple St to attend Council on Aging programming.
As part of the Cool and Connected program, St. John’s Episcopal Church, 74 Pleasant St, welcomes visitors Tuesdays and Fridays, 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Calvary Church, 300 Mass Ave, will welcome visitors Mondays 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Arlington EATS, 117 Broadway, will welcome visitors Sunday, August 9 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Town Officials recommend residents be careful during extended periods of extreme heat and offer the following tips:
Safety Tips
• Know the symptoms of and watch out for heat-related illnesses. Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies.
• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise almost 20°F within 10 minutes.
• Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect heat and sunlight, plus help maintain normal body temperature.
• Drink plenty of water — even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink, ask how much you should drink during hot weather.
• Be a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions, those who may need additional assistance, and those who may not have air conditioning.
• Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
• If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shady areas so your body temperature will have a chance to recover. Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
• If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Use fans to stay cool and avoid using your stove and oven. Consider spending time in air-conditioned public spaces, such as libraries, theaters, and other community facilities.
• If there are power outages during warm weather, call your utility company to report the outage and get restoration information.
You may find additional information about extreme heat on the State’s website, mass.gov.
