Easton Fire Issues Heat-Related Advisories To Residents

EASTON, MA — Easton Fire Chief Kevin Partridge and the Easton Emergency Management Team are urging residents to take caution, stay indoors if possible and stay hydrated this week as temperatures remain in the 90s.

"This high level of heat can be dangerous, and in some cases deadly, so we strongly encourage residents to stay indoors and out of the sun whenever possible," Chief Partridge said. "Residents should stay hydrated, and also check in on loved ones to make sure they are safe and have everything they need."

Partridge said Tuesday morning the town will determine whether to open a cooling center, if there are widespread power outages, at Frothingham Hall on Barrows Street.

With the exception of the police station lobby, town buildings remain closed due to the coronavirus health crisis.

Here are some additional tips from the Easton Emergency Management Team for preventing heat-related illness:

• Never leave children, adults or pets alone in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Slow down, avoid strenuous activity.
• Avoid too much sun.
• Plan outdoor games and activities for early morning or evening.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and use air conditioners to cool the air.
• When the temperature is in the 90’s, fans will not prevent heat related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath is a better way to cool off.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing that will cover as much skin as possible.
• Protect face and head by wearing a wide brimmed hat.
• Drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid alcoholic beverages, drinks with caffeine and large amounts of sugar — these actually cause you to lose more body fluid.
• Use your stove less and try to cook your meals in the cooler part of the day.
• Although any one at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others.
• Check regularly on infants and young children, people aged 65 or older, people who have a mental illness and those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure

• Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching.
• KEEP COOL – Spend as much time as you can in cooler surroundings