With the National Weather Service (NWS) issuing a Heat Advisory across Connecticut for the remainder of today, and an Excessive Heat Warning for the entire state going into effect for July 20-21, the American Red Cross has also issued information on staying safe during high temperatures. 

Extreme heat can cause illness and death among at-risk population who cannot stay cool, the weather service is reminding people of all ages.

“The excessive heat may quickly cause heat stress or heat stroke,” it said as part of the warning issued early Friday, July 19. “Extreme heat can cause illness and death among at-risk population who cannot stay cool. The excessive heat may quickly cause heat stress or heat stroke.”

The NWS Heat Advisory went into effect at noon today, and will remain in effect until 6 am Saturday, July 20. 

The Excessive Heat Warning will then be in effect from 6 am Saturday until 8 pm Sunday, July 21. Heat index values are expected to reach 95-104 degrees today, and up to around 110 degrees on Saturday and Sunday, according to the weather service. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 600 people in the United States are killed by extreme heat every year. Some people are more at risk of developing a heat-related illness, including adults age 65 and older, those with chronic medical conditions, people who work outside, infants and children and athletes. 

Governor Ned Lamont is advising Connecticut residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable, to take precautions ahead of the extreme temperatures. 

“This will be the first period of extreme heat we’re experiencing so far this summer, and I want to remind everyone – particularly those in the most vulnerable communities – that cooling centers are available and can be located by calling 211,” Gov Lamont said Friday. “Everyone should take the necessary precautions as the heat rises over the next several days. A few steps can greatly reduce heat-related issues, especially for the elderly, the very young, and people with respiratory ailments who are more susceptible to the effects of high temperatures.”

Red Cross Safety Tips

With temperatures reaching up to or exceeding 99 degrees this weekend, adequate preparation is crucial. The American Red Cross has steps everyone can take to help stay safe when the temperatures soar.

Follow these safety steps to help stay safe when the temperatures soar.

Before A Heat Wave

*Listen to local weather forecasts and stay aware of upcoming temperature changes.

*Be aware of both the temperature and the heat index. The heat index is the temperature the body feels when the effects of heat and humidity are combined.

*Discuss heat safety precautions with members of your household. Have a plan for wherever you spend time — home, work and school —and prepare for power outages.

*Check the contents of your emergency disaster kit in case a power outage occurs.

*Know those in your neighborhood who are elderly, young, sick or overweight. They are more likely to become victims of excessive heat and may need help.

*For those who do not have air conditioning, choose places you could go to for relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day (schools, libraries, theaters, malls).

Town of Newtown officials reminded residents earlier this week that the library and Edmond Town Hall are available as cooling centers over the weekend.

The library, at 25 Main Street, is open on Saturdays from 9:30 am until 5 pm during the summer months. 

Edmond Town Hall, will have three screenings of Avengers: Endgame on Saturday and Sunday; see our calendar page for details. The town hall still have screenings scheduled for 4:30 this afternoon and 8 pm tonight as well. 

*People living in urban areas may be at greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave those who live in rural areas.

*Get trained in First Aid to learn how to treat heat-related emergencies.

*Ensure that your animals' needs for water and shade are met.

During A Heat Wave

*Listen to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service (NWS).

*Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.

As Newtown Bee Reporter Alissa Silber reminded readers this week, now is the time of year when someone leaving a pet unattended inside a car, even for a “quick” trip to the store, can turn deadly.

*Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.

*Eat small meals and eat more often.

*Avoid extreme temperature changes.

*Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors, which absorb the sun’s rays.

*Slow down, stay indoors, and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

*Postpone outdoor games and activities.

*Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.

*Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors.

*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.

*Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

Heat Warning Details

The National Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 105 degrees or greater.

“Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside,” the weather service posted on Friday. “When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible, and drink plenty of water.”

Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle, and replenish their fluids with a half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.

A Heat Advisory is issued when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 95 to 99 degrees for two or more consecutive days, or 100 to 104 degrees for any length of time.

Seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions are at increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoors.

As Town officials also reminded residents earlier this week, it is important to use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to a place that has air conditioning. Check on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

“Heat stroke is an emergency!” the weather service said. “In cases of heat stroke call 911.”