CONNECTICUT, USA — The first heat wave of 2024 in Connecticut is underway as of Tuesday. Here is a compilation of tips people should know to protect themselves and others.
According to the FOX61 weather team, the weather will feel over 100 degrees with a stretch of heat expected to last through Friday. The heat wave prompted Gov. Ned Lamont to activate the state's hot weather protocol, which will be effective Tuesday through 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 23.
Where can I find cooling centers near me?
For a full list of cooling centers across the state, one can call 211 or 311, or visit the United Way of Connecticut website here to find the closest location.
How do I stay safe in the heat?
Information from the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that people stay indoors in an air conditioned space as much as possible.
Those who are inside their own homes can lower the temperature by using the stove and oven less, as well as taking a cool shower or a bath, according to the CDC. Connecticut Natural Gas also noted that homes can be cooled through the use of blinds, curtains, external shutters or if necessary, a bed sheet or towel.
Anyone traveling in a car is asked by the CDC to crack windows open, and ensure that no one, especially including children, infants or pets, should be left inside when parked. As a reminder, the CDC said people should leave an item such as a stuffed animal in the car seat and then place it in front with the driver when the child is buckled in. For more information on the dangers of kids being left inside a car during a heat wave, click here.
For those who are unable to stay indoors, the CDC noted that people should reduce exercising and stop all activity when feeling "lightheaded, confused, weak or faint," or if one's heart begins to pound along with shortness of breath and find a cool or shaded area to rest.
People are also recommended by the CDC to wear "lightweight, loose fitting clothing," a "wide-brimmed hat," sunglasses and sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.
The best sunscreen to wear to avoid a sunburn, according to the CDC, are those that say "broad spectrum" or "UVA/UVB protection."
To stay hydrated, the CDC said people should stick to water and avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks which cause the body to lose more fluid. It was also noted that drinks that are too cold can lead to stomach cramps.
Those listed most at risk in extreme heat according to the CDC include infants and young children, people 65 and older, people who are overweight, people who tend to "overexert during work or exercise," or those with physical illnesses such as heart disease or high blood pressure or take certain medications.
The CDC recommends checking on family members and others at risk at least twice a day and more so with infants and children.
Pets should also be kept in mind during the heat and given enough water and kept in a shady area, the CDC said. More tips on how to keep them safe can be found here.
More details from the CDC on how to recognize heat-related illnesses can be found here.
What is my local heat risk?
To access the CDC's HeatRisk tool, where residents can enter their zip code to access their localized, real-time heat risk, they can visit the Department of Public Health website here.
How do I control my energy bill during the heat?
According to Connecticut Natural Gas, there are multiple ways to prepare for a heat wave while avoiding energy costs.
Steps to control the energy bill include setting the thermostat at a comfortable temperature without changing it to lower than normal when first turning it on, CNG said.
People can also reduce costs by using appliances such as washers and dryers after 8 p.m. to "avoid higher energy supply costs during peak hours," according to CNG.
CNG also recommends to check on refrigerators, freezers, fans and air conditioning to make sure they are working properly and efficiently, and to replace filters if needed.
For tips on how to cut down energy costs, visit CNG's website here.
Where can I find the latest updates on the heat wave?
Anyone looking for the latest updates on the heat wave in Connecticut can stay tuned to the FOX61 forecast page here, as well as on FOX61+ and the FOX61 app.
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