Gov. Ned Lamont has implemented Connecticut’s ‘Extreme Hot Weather Protocol’ and it will remain in effect through Sunday, July 30.

By Ronni Newton

The Town of West Hartford is urging the community to exercise caution and check in on elderly neighbors over the next several days amid soaring temperatures and a heat index around 100ºF.

The National Weather Service has issued a “Heat Advisory” for the West Hartford area which is in effect from 11 a.m. Thursday through 8 p.m. Friday, with a heat index expected to range from 95-104ºF. Storms are expected Saturday night, and it is supposed to be much cooler and less humid by Sunday.

Gov. Ned Lamont has activated Connecticut’s “Extreme Hot Weather Protocol” as of Wednesday morning, and it will remain in effect through 8 a.m. Sunday, the Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security stated.

“We’ve experienced a pretty warm summer so far, but it’s expected to get particularly hot this week, including during the evening hours,” the governor said in a statement. “Cooling centers are open throughout Connecticut and can be located by calling 2-1-1 or visiting 211ct.org.”

West Hartford does not have a specific facility reserved as a cooling center, but town officials said that residents can seek refuge to cool off at the public libraries and senior centers, as well as the town’s pools and splash pads. Locations and hours are listed on the town’s website. Malls and movie theaters are also suggested as air conditioned locations where people can cool off.

“As always, the Police and Fire Departments will be fully staffed and prepared to respond in any emergency,” town officials said in an announcement. “If you have any questions or concerns, please feel 860-523-5203.”

To keep your home cool, town officials suggest installing window air conditioners, and using insulation around the window opening.

Windows should also be covered with drapes or shades, and window reflectors are designed to reflect heat back outside.

“Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device,” the town’s announcement said. “Fans create air flow and a false sense of comfort, but do not reduce body temperature or prevent heat-related illnesses.” A powered attic ventilator or fan, however,, can help regulate the heat level in a home by clearing out the hot air.

Infants and young children, the elderly, and those who are overweight or ill, or who work outdoors, are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat – which according to ready.gov is responsible for the highest number of weather-related deaths.

Safety tips provided by the town and state include the following:

• Never leave people or pets in a closed car.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• If you’re outside, find shade. Wear a hat wide enough to protect your face.
• Drink plenty of fluids (two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside) to stay hydrated, and remind others to drink plenty of fluids.
• Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Consider pet safety. If they are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade.
• Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.

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