HEAT ALERT!

HEAT ALERT UPDATE: MIDDLETOWN OPENS FIRE HYDRANTS AND COOLING CENTERS

The City of Middletown has just released important information for dealing with the upcoming heatwave. Fire Hydrants, Cooling Centers, Alternate Relief Measures and Precautionary measures are outlined below.
FIRE HYDRANT OPENINGS

• The Highlands Crescent Drive bus stop from 12 P.M. – 4 P.M.
• Maplewood Terrace from 12 P.M. – 3 P.M. and 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.
• Julia Terrace from 12 P.M. – 3 P.M. and 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.
• Macdonough School (Pease Ave) from 12 P.M. – 3 P.M. and 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.
• Snow School from 12 P.M. – 3 P.M. and 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.

COOLING CENTERS

• Middletown City Hall Council Chambers located at 245 DeKoven Drive. The Council Chambers will be open Wednesday through Friday from 8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.
• Middletown Police Department Community Room, 222 Main Street, which will be daily around the clock
• The Russell Library located at 123 Broad Street. The Russell Library will be open Wednesday and Thursday from 9 A.M. – 8:30 P.M, Friday from 9 A.M. – 6 P.M. and on Saturday from 9 A.M. – 1 P.M.

ALTERNATE RELIEF MEASURES

• NEAT has passes courtesy of KID CITY for free admission for North End kids under five with their parents for today and tomorrow. If you are interested in obtaining these passes, please come to the NEAT office located at 654 Main Street. KID CITY is open until 5pm so please take advantage of this opportunity. If you have never been, this would be a great time to go.

PRECAUTIONS
City health officials state that although anyone at any time can suffer a heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others including: infants and young children, people aged 65 or older, those with a mental illness, and those that are physically ill with heart disease and/or high blood pressure.

The combination of high temperatures and humidity can cause heat-related illnesses such as hyperthermia and heat exhaustion. The most serious form of hyperthermia is heat stroke which is characterized by a body temperature of 105 degrees. Symptoms may include disorientation, delirium, and coma. Onset is rapid and progression to becoming life-threatening may only take a few minutes. Anyone in this condition should seek immediate medical attention. Heat exhaustion is a milder form of hyperthermia and may occur after several day of exposure to heat combined with inadequate fluid intake. Symptoms may include dizziness, weakness, and fatigue.

The best defense against heat related illness is prevention. Drink more fluids and do not wait until you are thirsty and wear light weight, loose fitting clothing. Stay indoors if possible in an air-conditioned place. Never leave anyone, especially children and/or pets in a closed, parked vehicle.

For more information call (860) 344-3482.