Hydrants, cooling centers open ahead of heat wave

MIDDLETOWN — High heat and humidity are expected over the next couple days, so local officials are warning residents to take precautionary measures to avoid excess exposure that may lead to illness.

Residents who are in need of respite are encouraged to seek air-conditioned comfort in public buildings.

The lobby of the Middletown Police Department, 222 Main St., which is open 24 hours a day, will be available to serve as a cooling station. Other public facilities will be available as well, such as the Russell Library on Broad Street, and the lobby of City Hall, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The library is open Monday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday, 1 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Elderly persons are encouraged to use the Middletown Senior Center on Durant Terrace.

The city will also be opening fire hydrant sprinklers Saturday and Sunday at:

⏩ Highlands Crescent Drive bus stop from noon to 4 p.m.

⏩ Maplewood Terrace from 2 to 5 p.m.

⏩ Summer Hill Road and Woodbury Circle from 2 to 5 p.m.

⏩ Macdonough Elementary School from noon to 3 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.

⏩ Santangelo Circle from noon to 3 p.m.

⏩ Daddario Road from 6 to 8 p.m.

The combination of high temperatures and humidity can cause heat related illnesses such as hypothermia and heat exhaustion. The most serious form of hypothermia is heat stroke which is characterized by a body temperature of 105 degrees, according to a press release.

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 hypothermia and may occur after several days of exposure to heat combined with inadequate fluid intake. Symptoms may include dizziness, weakness and fatigue, the release continued.

The best defense against heat related illness is prevention. People are advised to drink more fluids and not wait until they are thirsty; as well as wear light weight, loose-fitting clothing, and stay indoors, if possible, in an air-conditioned place. No one, especially children and/or pets, should be left in a closed, parked vehicle.

For information, visit cityofmiddletown.com and Comcast Channel 19.

Hearst Connecticut Media file photo Youth use the cooling spray from a fire hydrant to keep cool.