A Notice from DEEC: Hot Weather Precautions & Safety Tips

Dangerous heat and humidity is expected Tuesday through Friday across Massachusetts. The Healey-Driscoll Administration shared important personal safety precautions to help plan ahead and practice extreme heat safety.

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for most of the state beginning Tuesday. Heat indices between 98 and 106 degrees are expected. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat-related illnesses to occur.

To reduce the risks of heat-related illness for you and the children you care for, including heat stroke and heat exhaustion, you should: 

  • Limit time spent outdoors. If you must be outside, please:
    • Limit activities to the morning or evening
    • Watch for hot surfaces, like sidewalks and playground equipment
    • Keep children in shaded areas
    • Use high SPF sunscreen
  • Drink lots of cool water every 15-20 minutes and avoid caffeinated beverages.
  • Dress for the heat by wearing a hat, light-colored, loose fitting, and breathable clothing.
  • Spend time in air-conditioned buildings. If your program does not have air-conditioning, call 2-1-1 to find locations of cooling centers or shelters near you.
  • Keep fans and cooling equipment out of reach of children.
  • Never leave children or pets in the car alone. Temperatures will rise to unhealthy levels within minutes.
  • If there are power outages during warm weather, you may need to take additional precautions or go to a cooling center or emergency shelter to stay cool.
  • As always, call 9-1-1 in an emergency. 

If you need to close your program for any heat-related reasons, please notify parents as soon as possible.

Check your local weather forecasts for the most up-to-date information. Visit Mass.gov for more information on extreme heat safety tips.

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