Norwalk Public Libraries & City Hall Open as Cooling Centers

With the first heat wave of the summer, the City of Norwalk is reminding people to protect themselves during the extreme heat and seek out options to cool down, such as cooling centers at the public libraries and City hall. “Extreme hot weather can be very dangerous, especially for the elderly, young children, and those who work outdoors,” said Mayor Harry Rilling. “Remember to take frequent breaks if working outside and drink plenty of water to beat the heat.” 

The following tips can help you stay cool during the hot days ahead:

  • Cooling centers: If no air conditioning or fans are in your home, the Norwalk Public libraries and City hall are open and serve as the City’s cooling centers. Older residents can also visit the senior centers. On Tuesday the main library will be open until 5:30 and the SoNo library will be open until 8:30. Tomorrow, the main library is open until 8:30 and the SoNo library is open until 5:30. http://www.norwalklib.org/index.aspx?NID=336
  • Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella.
  • Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
  • Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
  • Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m.
  • Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool, they simply circulate the air.
  • Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.
  • Never leave persons, especially children, and pets in a closed, parked vehicle.
  • Don't get too much sun. Sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation that much more difficult.

For additional resources about summer and heat safety, visit www.norwalkct.org

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Submitted by Norwalk, CT

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