The Police Department Community Room will become a cooling center today from noon until 8:00 PM for local residents who are in need of relief from what is expected to be oppressive heat and humidity. Mayor Sebastian Guiliano said that the air-conditioned Community Room located inside the Police Department at 222 Main Street will open because of soaring temperatures and high humidity. Anyone seeking relief from the heat is advised to come to the cooling center. Pets are not allowed and food will not be provided.
The body normally cools itself by sweating. However, when heat and humidity increase, the body works harder to remain cool. When temperatures hover at 90° F and the humidity level is high for an extended period, the body may lose its’ ability to respond efficiently. A person may experience hyperthermia when this occurs.
According to city health official the most serious form of hyperthermia is heatstroke which is characterized by a body temperature of at least 105° F. 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 get immediate medical attention.
Heat exhaustion is a milder form of hyperthermia and may occur after several days of exposure to high heat and humidity combined with inadequate fluid intake. A person suffering from heat exhaustion may require medical attention but should be given some water moved to a cooler location in the interim.
Officials went on to say that the temperature and humidity do not necessarily have to be oppressive for someone to become a victim of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. The very young, the elderly, obese persons, persons taking certain prescription drugs, and the chronically ill may be most susceptible.
The best way to prevent heat-related illness is to keep well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
If possible, use a fan or stay in an air-conditioned or other cool environment. Dress in lightweight, loose fitting clothing and wear a hat. Beware of alcohol intake and caffeine which can interfere with your body’s ability to cool itself. If you decide to exercise it is best to do so during the cooler early morning hours or later in the evening part of the day
For more information on the cooling center, call the Middletown Police Department at (860) 638-3501.
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