New Bedford Offers Relief From The Heat

The heat advisory for the Southcoast area will continue for the next few days, with index temps feeling like at least 100 degrees.   For those who do not have access to air conditioning, there are some places in New Bedford that will be offering some relief from the heat this week.

City libraries and senior centers will be accessible during their normal hours over the course of the week.   The main library will be open from 9 in the morning until 9 at night.  All branches will be open from 10 until 8 Tuesday.  

The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is offering a few tips to keep cool and safe.

-Slow down! Avoid strenuous activity.

-Wear light, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.

-Stay hydrated.

-Limit intake of alcoholic beverages.

-Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.

-Stay indoors as much as possible.

-If you don't have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun.

-Visit places that do have air conditioning like schools, libraries and theaters.

-Cover windows that receive lots of sun with drapes or curtains. This can reduce the heat that enters a home by 80%.

-Avoid too much sun and use sunscreen with a high SPF if you are outdoors.

-Never leave children or pets in a closed vehicle.

With the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke looming over the next few days, call 911 if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a heat-related emergency.

 All the Senior Centers are open from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m..  They are at Brooklawn Park, Buttonwood Park, Downtown Ashley Park and Hazelwood Park.