Thursday, July 21, 2011

Hydrants and Cooling Centers Open for Heat Emergency

From the Mayor's Office


Mayor Sebastian Giuliano announced that the City of Middletown will be opening fire hydrants as a way to combat the impending heat wave. Fire hydrants will be opened at the following locations through the weekend or until the heat wave breaks:
·      The Highlands Crescent Drive bus stop from 12 P.M. – 4 P.M.
·      Maplewood Terrace from 12 P.M. – 3 P.M. and 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.
·      Julia Terrace from 12 P.M. – 3 P.M. and 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.
·      Macdonough School (Pease Ave) from 12 P.M. – 3 P.M. and 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.
·      Snow School from 12 P.M. – 3 P.M. and 6 P.M. – 8 P.M.

Residents can also seek relief from the heat at Middletown City Hall Council Chambers located at 245 DeKoven Drive.  The Council Chambers will be open Wednesday through Friday from 8:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.  Additional cooling centers will be at the Middletown Police Department Community Room, 222 Main Street, which will be daily around the clock and at the Russell Library located at 123 Broad Street. The Russell Library will be open Wednesday and Thursday from 9 A.M. – 8:30 P.M, Friday from 9 A.M. – 6 P.M. and on Saturday from 9 A.M. – 1 P.M.

City health officials state that although anyone at any time can suffer a heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others including: infants and young children, people aged 65 or older, those with a mental illness, and those that are physically ill with heart disease and/or high blood pressure.

The combination of high temperatures and humidity can cause heat-related illnesses such as hyperthermia and heat exhaustion.  The most serious form of hyperthermia is heat stroke which is characterized by a body temperature of 105 degrees.  Symptoms may include disorientation, delirium, and coma.  Onset is rapid and progression to becoming life-threatening may only take a few minutes. Anyone in this condition should seek immediate medical attention.  Heat exhaustion is a milder form of hyperthermia and may occur after several day of exposure to heat combined with inadequate fluid intake. Symptoms may include dizziness, weakness, and fatigue.

The best defense against heat related illness is prevention. Drink more fluids and do not wait until you are thirsty and wear light weight, loose fitting clothing. Stay indoors if possible in an air-conditioned place. Never leave anyone, especially children and/or pets in a closed, parked vehicle.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

who will pay for this huge waste of water? why don't these folks go to vet's pool or miller's pond??

Anonymous said...

My kids have been waiting all day for the hydrants to be turned on at Snow School. I'm very dissapointed that you have let the kids down. As of right now it is 6pm and it's bone dry up there. In the future do not get the children hopes up, and then don't come through on what you said. Thanks for nothing.

Crystal said...

When posting times for fire hydrant use please make sure that they actually turn on the fire hydrants. My kids and others have been waiting by Wilburt Snow school and know one has yet to show up. Mayor your not winning with me, make sure they do what their told and not what they feel like doing.