Rockland Fire Department Offers Hot Weather Safety Tips Ahead of Potential Heat Wave

ROCKLAND — As the hottest weeks of summer approach, Chief Scott Duffey would like to remind Rockland residents to take safety precautions during their summer activities, especially those that take place outdoors.

“We ask residents to check on their neighbors who are elderly or disabled and may not have air conditioning during this heat wave,” Chief Duffey said. “If necessary, we will be opening a cooling center in town for those who want to get out of the heat.”

The National Weather Service is expecting temperatures to reach into the 90s throughout the weekend in Rockland.

To prevent illness and injuries, the Rockland Fire Department recommends the following safety tips from the American Red Cross and National Safety Council:

Heat Safety Tips:

Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach over 100 degrees, even on a 70 degree day.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, like water.
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like libraries, theaters, malls, etc.
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, which is typically around 3 p.m.
Postpone outdoor games and activities if the temperature is too hot.
Avoid extreme temperature changes.
Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water.
Learn to recognize and treat heat illnesses.

Tips for Parents:

Limit playtime at peak sun exposure time and familiarize yourself with the signs of heat illnesses.
Avoid burns. If playground equipment is hot to the touch, it is too hot for your child’s bare skin.

If deemed necessary by town officials, Rockland will open cooling locations for residents to seek relief during extreme heat.

To learn more about summer safety, visit the American Red Cross or National Safety Council websites.

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Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention