For Immediate Release

Friday, July 19, 2019

Contact: Benjamin Paulin
Phone: 781-428-3299
Email: ben@jgpr.net

Taunton Fire Department Offers Hot Weather Safety Tips for Weekend Heat Wave

TAUNTON – As the hottest weeks of summer approach, Chief Timothy Bradshaw would like to remind residents to take safety precautions during their summer activities, especially those that take place outdoors.

“We encourage residents to take it easy this weekend. Stay inside and in air conditioning as much as possible,” Chief Bradshaw said. “If you do spend time outdoors, be sure to stay hydrated and be careful not to overexert yourself.”

The National Weather Service is expecting temperatures to reach into the 90s throughout the weekend in Taunton. Regionally, temperatures are forecast to be in the 90s to lower 100s, and Saturday is expected to be the hottest day.

An Excessive Heat Watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for most of Massachusetts on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

To prevent illness and injuries, the Taunton 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.
• If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like libraries, theaters, malls, etc.
• 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 playtime 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.

To learn more about summer safety, visit the American Red Cross or National Safety Council websites.

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