Heat Advice and Neighborliness

[Gwendolyn Hallsmith]

Hello Neighbors!

It's hot out there.  I've heard that we may set a record today in Montpelier.  Record temperatures can mean that some of our neighbors who are not prepared for the heat can suffer more than we would expect.  Remember France back in 2003 when they had a heat wave and more than 10,000 people died?  The people who died were often elderly folks living on upper floors without air conditioning.  Their limited mobility left them unable to take action to get to a place where they could cool down.  Heat can cause heart and respiratory problems to get worse, which can be life-threatening.

Please take steps to keep yourselves cool.  Please circulate this message to people who you think might need help.  If you have neighbors who are older, or have mobility problems or other risk factors, please check in on them to make sure they're OK.  

The following advice applies to everybody when it comes to keeping cool and comfortable and reducing health risks:

• Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. If it’s safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler.
• Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don’t go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you’re vulnerable to the effects of heat.
• Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).
• Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.
• Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
• Stay tuned to the weather forecast on the radio or TV.
• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
• Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.
• Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat if you go outdoors.
• Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.

Cheers, Gwen.
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__________________________________
Gwendolyn Hallsmith

gwe...@gmail.com

work address:

Director, Department of Planning and Community Development
City Hall
39 Main Street
Montpelier, VT  05602
ghall...@montpelier-vt.org
802-223-9506