Heat Alert In West Hartford As Pools Open Friday, June 20

Town of West Hartford

WEST HARTFORD, CT — The town is ready to help folks beat the heat, with the official opening of West Hartford's outdoor pools being Friday, June 20.

However, town officials also warn residents to take the necessary steps to ensure safety as the first official heat wave of 2025 looms this weekend and early next week.

The West Hartford Department of Leisure Services opened the four parks' splash pads and bathroom facilities on May 24.

Those splash pads are open daily, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Beachland Park, Fernridge Park, Kennedy Park, and Wolcott Park.

The opening day for outdoor pools is Friday, June 20th. Click here to view the hours of operation at each park.

The outdoor pools are managed by the dedicated staff from Cornerstone Aquatics Center.

A variety of water fitness classes, private and group lessons, and fun family activities are offered. Click here to view classes.

Cooling centers

As part of the alert, the Town of West Hartford announced the following municipal cooling centers and hours:

• Noah Webster Library: 20 S. Main St., Monday-Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursday-Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Faxon Branch Library: 1073 New Britain Ave., Monday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Wednesday: 1 to 8 p.m.; Thursday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Friday/Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Bishops Corner Branch Library: 15 Starkel Road, Monday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesday: 1 to 8 p.m.; Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Friday/Saturday: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• West Hartford Senior Center, Bishops Corner: 15 Starkel Road, Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Elmwood Community Center: 1106 New Britain Ave. (2nd Floor), Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition to these centers, the Westfarms Mall is normally open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and is located at 1500 New Britain Ave. on the West Hartford/Farmington line.

The following public parks offer splash pads: Beachland Park, Fernridge Park, Kennedy Park, and Wolcott Park.

Public pools may be found at the following parks: Beachland Park, Eisenhower Park, Fernridge Park, and Kennedy Park.

For more information on parks and pools, visit https://www.westhartfordct.gov/town-departments/leisure-services/parks.

Heat warning

The pool openings come as the West Hartford Department of Emergency Management Thursday issued a heat warning to residents about the weather expected Sunday, June 22, to Wednesday, June 25.

Temperatures are expected to be well into the 90s and, even, approach 100, with heat indexes making it feel even worse.

"During this period of extreme heat, it is important to take proactive steps to ensure your safety and well-being. High temperatures can pose significant health risks, especially to vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions," wrote West Hartford officials Thursday.

Among the tips offered by local officials are:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and drinks with high amounts of sugar.

• Stay Cool: Spend time in air-conditioned places like malls, libraries, and community centers. West Hartford libraries, community centers, senior centers, pools, and splash pads are open during the day.

• Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing. Use sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat if you need to be outdoors.

• Limit Outdoor Activities: Try to limit outdoor activities to the early morning or evening when temperatures are lower. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade or cool areas.

• Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Ensure that elderly neighbors, young children, and those with chronic illnesses are coping with the heat.

• Never Leave Children or Pets in Vehicles: Even for a short period, temperatures inside vehicles can quickly become dangerous or even deadly.

• Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness: Symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headaches could indicate heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Call 911 immediately for any medical emergencies.

• Reduce Electrical Consumption: Use washing machines and dishwashers during the evening after peak consumption times.

• Stay Informed: Keep updated with local weather forecasts and heat advisories. Residents can sign up to receive emergency alerts from the Town of West Hartford at https://www.westhartfordct.gov/how-do-i-2/get-notified

For more information on preparedness and tips to stay cool, please visit the Ready.gov site at https://www.ready.gov/heat#prepare.