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Mayor Brodeur Encourages Residents to Stay Safe During Heat Wave

Posted on: June 4, 2021 - 1:57pm

MELROSE, MA—Massachusetts will see its first heat wave of 2021 this weekend, and the City of Melrose urges residents to stay safe and stay cool.

“We’re about to see a four-day stretch of 90-plus-degree weather,” said Mayor Paul Brodeur. “The Melrose Public Library will be open regular hours if folks need a place to cool down.”  

The Melrose Public Library’s operating hours are Monday-Saturday from 10 AM – 5 PM. The library will be closed on Sunday.

Interim Health Director for Melrose and Wakefield, Elaine Silva, said that preparation is key and urged residents to educate themselves about the signs of heat stroke.

“Heat can be dangerous,” said Silva. “Make sure you drink plenty of fluids and that you know where to go if you need a place to cool down. It’s important to have a plan and to use the buddy system. Someone should know where you are going. It’s important to check on each other.”

Silva also recommended limiting physical activity, wearing loose-fitting, light-colored clothing, and to always use sun protection if going outside.

“Also, it’s easy to forget to eat when it’s so hot. Make sure you are eating even if it’s something light like fruit or popsicles,” Silva added.

In the event of an emergency, dial 911.

According to the CDC, signs of heat stroke include:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Weakness
  • Cold, pale, and clammy skin
  • Fast, weak pulse
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fainting

What you should do:

  • Move to a cooler location.
  • Lie down and loosen your clothing.
  • Apply cool, wet cloths to as much of your body as possible.
  • Sip water.
  • If you have vomited and it continues, seek medical attention immediately.
  • Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:
  • High body temperature (above 103°F)
  • Hot, red, dry or moist skin
  • Rapid and strong pulse
  • Possible unconsciousness

What You Should Do

  • Call 911 immediately — this is a medical emergency.
  • Move the person to a cooler environment.
  • Reduce the person's body temperature with cool cloths or even a bath.
  • Do NOT give fluids.

Heat-Related Symptoms