Winsted, Torrington cooling centers open

Torrington and Winsted officials announced that they are offering cooling centers for residents now through Aug. 12-13. Torrington

The Torrington City Hall Auditorium, 140 Main St., is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Masks and social distancing are required.

The Sullivan Senior Center, 88 East Albert St., is open to residents age 60 and over only, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Masks and social distancing are required.

“We are asking everyone to take precautions during the forecast periods of extreme heat. The following guidelines are recommended,” said Police Chief William Baldwin.

Never leave a child, adult, or animal alone inside a vehicle on a warm day.

Find places with air conditioning. Libraries, shopping malls, and community centers can provide a cool place to take a break from the heat.

If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.

Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If you or someone you care for is on a special diet, ask a doctor how best to accommodate it.

Do not use electric fans when the temperature outside is more than 95 degrees, as this could increase the risk of heat-related illness. Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature

Avoid high-energy activities.

Check yourself, family members, and neighbors for signs of heat-related illness.

Additional information and recommendations may be located at www.ready.gov/ heat.

Winsted

The following locations were designated as cooling centers for Wednesda and Thursday:

Town Hall, 338 Main Street, 2nd Floor - Hicks Room, Thursday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Blanche McCarthy Senior Center, seniors only, 80 Holabird Avenue, Thursday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Beardsley & Memorial Library, 40 Munro Place, Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Note: While the library offers shelter from the sun, it does not have an air conditioning system.

The following local businesses have also volunteered to function as cooling centers during their normal business hours:

Dunkin', 760 Main Street and 3 Main Street

Winsted News (The Cigar Store), 418 Main Street

Kent Pizza, 536 Main Street

McDonald’s, 15 South Main Street

McGrane’s on the Green, Park Place West

Masks are required in Town Hall and the Senior Center regardless of vaccination status.