Newtown Urges Heat Safety As CT Activates Extreme Hot Weather Protocol

NEWTOWN, CT — The Town of Newtown is advising residents to stay cool and safe as a heat wave grips the region, coinciding with Gov. Ned Lamont’s activation of the state’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol from noon Monday, Aug. 11, through at least 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14.

Newtown’s First Selectman, Emergency Management, and the Health District noted that the National Weather Service forecasts temperatures above 90°F, with heat indices expected to exceed 100°F, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday.

“The National Weather Service has informed our office that this approaching heat wave may deliver the hottest stretch of weather Connecticut has experienced so far this summer,” Lamont said.

Local cooling centers are available during business hours:

• Municipal Center at Fairfield Hills – Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; extended hours during public meetings.
• Newtown Community Center – Call 203-270-4349 for availability. Open Monday–Thursday 6 a.m.–9 p.m., Friday 6 a.m.–8 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Sunday 7 a.m.–5 p.m.

Officials urged residents to seek air-conditioned spaces for errands, support elderly neighbors, and ensure pets have shade, water, and are never left in vehicles. They also encouraged measures such as staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous outdoor activity, wearing light-colored, loose clothing, and avoiding the sun during peak hours. Heat-related illness signs — including headache, nausea, cramps, confusion, rash, and fatigue — warrant moving individuals to cooler areas, loosening clothing, applying cool cloths, offering water, and calling 911 if symptoms persist.