Town of Marion Offers Tips To Stay Cool This Week

MARION– Public Health Director Lori Desmarais and Fire Chief Brian Jackvony are offering the following tips to help residents stay cool during this week’s extreme heat.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the region through Wednesday. Temperatures on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are expected to climb into the 90s, with tropical-level humidity making it feel close to 100 degrees.  

Residents looking for a break from the heat can visit the town Community Center and Elizabeth Taber Library, both of which will be open normal business hours. The Community Center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., as are all town offices. The Elizabeth Taber Library is open Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.  

In addition, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has offered the following tips:

• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise almost 20°F within 10 minutes.
  
• Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.
  
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect heat and sunlight, and help maintain normal body temperature.
  
• Drink plenty of water — even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink, ask how much you should drink during hot weather.
  
• Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.
  
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
  
• If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shady areas so your body temperature will have a chance to recover. Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
  
• If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Avoid using your stove and oven.
  
• Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off. Consider spending time in air-conditioned public spaces, such as schools, libraries, theaters, and other community facilities.

In addition, the town encourages residents to check in on elderly neighbors, those with health conditions, or anyone without access to air conditioning. Also, make sure pets have access to fresh water as well as shade and a cool place to rest.

Information on different types of heat-related illnesses can be found here.

Further summer safety guidance is also available at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website HERE.