This past weekend challenged many who cannot take the heat. Cooling stations were set up around town for those who needed a good dose of air conditioning.
Fire Chief Paul Flanagan gave the order to open the stations on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Senior Center, the Arbors, the Winthrop Public Library and O’Connell Hall on Golden Drive.
Members of the Winthrop Medical Reserve Corp, many of them nurses, were on hand at the senior center.
“We provide a place to come cool down in,†said Jeanne Maggio, head of the MRC.
The Senior Center and the Arbors didn’t get any visitor’s but the O’Connell Hall had a couple.
Official are offering some other tips for beating the heat.
• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise almost 20°F within 10 minutes.
Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect heat and sunlight, and help maintain normal body temperature.
Drink plenty of water — even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink, ask how much you should drink during hot weather.
Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.
Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shady areas so your body temperature will have a chance to recover. Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Use fans to stay cool and avoid using your stove and oven. Consider spending time in air-conditioned public spaces, such as schools, libraries, theaters, and other community facilities.