Prepare for Extreme Heat in Our Community 

An Extreme Heat Alert was issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health due to temperatures over 90°F for the next seven days.  

For heat-related illnesses, contact your primary care doctor or visit Sturdy Health Urgent Care in Plainville. For emergencies, visit the Emergency Department at Sturdy Memorial Hospital 24 hours-a-day. 

To prepare the community for the extreme heat, Sturdy Health clinicians would like to pass on these tips from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency. 

What To Do During Extreme Heat 

• 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. 

• Check with your local authorities or Call 2-1-1 to find locations of cooling centers or shelters near you. 

• On hot days, more people cool off around bodies of water. Playing in and around water can increase the risk of drowning. Learn how to keep yourself and your children safe in and around water with these Water Safety Tips.