BRIDGEWATER — With multiple 90-plus degree days already occurring in 2021, Chief Michael MacDermott and the Bridgewater Fire Department would like to remind residents to take safety precautions during activities during particularly hot days, especially those that take place outdoors.
“As we begin to experience the hottest weather of the year thus far, we recommend that residents review the following safety tips and be cautious,” Chief MacDermott said. “Hot weather can be dangerous to everyone, including elderly, children and pets. Hot cars are especially dangerous to children and pets, and playground equipment can cause burns to a child’s bare skin during hot weather.”
The first heat wave of the season began in the area on Saturday and is expected to last until the middle of the week with temperatures in the 80s and 90s. Along with the building heat, the dew point will also begin to climb resulting in humid conditions.
To prevent illness and injuries, the Bridgewater 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.
Click here to learn to recognize and treat heat illnesses.
Additional 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.
To learn more about summer safety, visit the National Safety Council’s summer safety website here.
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