Dartmouth Police, Town offer heat safety tips for this weekend

Jul 20, 2019

With the heatwave already hitting Dartmouth today and expected to stay through the weekend, Dartmouth Police Department and the Town of Dartmouth have both issued heat safety tips for residents to keep safe in the dangerous temperatures.

In a statement released on the Dartmouth Police Department’s website, Police Chief Brian Levesque said, “We highly encourage residents to minimize their outdoor time and to try to stay cool and hydrated throughout the weekend.”

The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for the weekend through 8 p.m. Sunday, July 21.

Both the Town of Dartmouth and the Police urged residents to stay hydrated by drinking water, to stay indoors with air conditioning or rest often in cool, shaded areas wherever possible, and to keep on the alert for signs of heat related illness — heat exhaustion or heat stroke — in yourself or others, particularly those at high risk, such as infants, children, and people over 65.

Other tips include:

  • -Never leave children or pets in a vehicle — hot cars can be deadly.
  • -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.
  • -Call 911 immediately if you observe anyone who is passed out or who is showing signs of heat stroke. 
    • -Those without air conditioning should seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like the town libraries, which are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today, or businesses such as theaters or malls.
    • -Wear sunscreen outside.
    • -Wear light, loose clothing. Light colors don’t absorb the sun’s rays.
    • -Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day — usually around 3 p.m.
    • -Postpone outdoor games and activities, avoid extreme temperature changes, and take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
    • -Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat and make sure they have plenty of cool water.
    • -Parents should limit playtime at peak sun exposure time and learn to recognize the signs of heat illnesses.
    • -If playground equipment is hot to the touch, it is too hot for bare skin.
  • -If you lose power, contact Eversource.