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    Saturday, May 11, 2024

    Malloy warns residents of extreme heat over the weekend

    With excessive heat forecast to continue over the next few days and heat advisories issued for most of the state, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Friday urged residents to take precautions and to call 211 if they need information on cooling centers in their town or city.

    The current forecast is calling for hot and very humid conditions to continue through Sunday, with highs in the mid-90s and the heat index in the 100- to 110-degree range.

    "High temperatures can be dangerous for your health, especially for the elderly, young children, and people who work outside," Malloy said in a news release. "Remember to keep cool and follow common sense. Please drink lots of water, stay in the shade, and monitor those who are at greatest risk when temperatures are extremely high."

    Those at greater risk are:

    • Infants and young children, who are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids.

    • Those 65 years of age or older, who may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to change in temperature.

    • People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia or poor circulation, who may be affected by extreme heat.

    Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman urged people to also be mindful of the effects of heat on pets.

    Prevention tips to stay safe in extreme heat:

    • Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible and try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening.

    • Find an air-conditioned shelter; call 211 for a list of cooling centers. Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device.

    • Avoid direct sunlight.

    • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.

    • Check on those most at risk twice a day.

    • Drink from two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.

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