NORTH HAVEN — Chief Paul Januszewski and the North Haven Fire Department would like to remind residents to take heat safety precautions this summer, especially during activities that take place outdoors.
“With summer in full swing and in the midst of the hot and humid weather we’ve been experiencing lately, we’d like to remind everyone to take precautions to stay safe,” Chief Januszewski said. “It’s important to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks from being outside, especially during the hottest parts of the day.”
The American Red Cross reports that excessive heat is a leading cause of weather-related deaths and injuries. To avoid heat-related illness and injuries, the North Haven Fire Department recommends the following safety tips from the American Red Cross and National Safety Council:
Heat Safety Tips:
- Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach over 100 degrees, even on a 70 degree day.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, like water.
- Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
- Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day, which is typically around 3 p.m.
- Postpone outdoor games and activities if the temperature is too hot.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes.
- Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
- Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water.
- Learn to recognize and treat heat illnesses.
Tips for Parents:
- Limit play at peak sun exposure time and familiarize yourself with the signs of heat illnesses.
- Avoid burns. If playground equipment is hot to the touch, it is too hot for your child’s bare skin.
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