Town Of Southbury Opens Cooling Centers

SOUTHBURY, CT — With temperatures expected to stay in the 90s and heat indices topping 100 degrees, state and local officials are urging residents to take precautions as a multi-day heat wave sets in across Connecticut.

Gov. Ned Lamont on Sunday activated the state’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol, which took effect at noon Monday and will remain in place through at least 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 30. The protocol aims to protect vulnerable populations and ensure access to cooling centers during periods of extreme heat.

In Southbury, the following cooling centers will be open to help residents stay safe during the extreme heat:

• Southbury Town Hall (501 Main Street South), Monday and Tuesday 8:00am-5:00pm; Wednesday 8:00am-6:00pm
• Southbury Senior Center (561 Main Street South), Monday and Tuesday 8:00am-5:00pm; Wednesday 8:00am-6:00pm
• Southbury Public Library at Heritage Hotel Location (522 Heritage Road), Monday and Wednesday 11:00am-5:30pm; Tuesday 11:00am-7:00pm

Residents can also call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org to find the nearest available cooling center.

“The forecast is indicating that we are in for another stretch of hot and muggy conditions over the next few days, and we’re working with our partners to open cooling centers,” Lamont said.

The state’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is coordinating with municipalities through its WebEOC system to track and respond to heat-related issues. United Way 2-1-1 is serving as a central hub to help residents locate cooling centers across the state.

Both the town and state health officials urge residents to remain indoors in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible, drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. People are also reminded never to leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Anyone experiencing symptoms should be moved to a shaded or air-conditioned space and 911 should be called immediately.