Extreme Heat Alert Issued In Simsbury, Shelters To Open

Town of Simsbury

SIMSBURY, CT – With weather forecasters predicting the year's first major heat wave through Wednesday evening, Simsbury officials have issued an alert about how folks can stay safe.

Temperatures during the heat wave will be intensely hot and humid, with highs of more than 95 degrees and, possibly, as high as 100, with heat indexes making it feel even worse.

As a result, the Town of Simsbury and the Department of Community and Social Services is reminding residents of the best practices to stay cool.

Folks, officials said, should try to stay inside where it is cool and utilize fans and air conditioning when available.

"Keeping your shades or curtains closed during the day will help keep your home cooler. If you must be outside, stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure to the extent possible," wrote the town over the weekend. "Early mornings and evenings are the best times to be outside, so plan your day accordingly."

Keeping cool

For those who need respite from the heat, the Simsbury Public Library is open during summer business hours, which are Monday to Thursday (9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.), Friday (9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.), and Saturday (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.).

Gov. Ned Lamont has activated the hot weather protocol, which will be in effect through
Wednesday and cooling centers are available.

Call Infoline at 211 or look online at 211ct.org to find the nearest location.

"We encourage you to take advantage of the many open spaces Simsbury has to offer," wrote the town.

Suggested open spaces include the pavilions at Town Forest, Tariffville Park, Hop Brook Landing, and taking advantage of places with good tree canopies, such as the trails in the Ethel Walker Woods and state parks located in town. Town pools are also open.

Residents are also asked to check on elderly family members and neighbors and never leave children or pets in an unattended vehicle.

For further information, or if you or someone you know is at risk due to the high temperatures, call the Simsbury Community and Social Services Department at 860-658-3283. The department does not monitor the phone line or voicemail messages during the weekend. For emergencies, call 911.

For more information on staying safe in extreme heat, click on this link.