Brookline Declares Heat Emergency, Sets Up Cooling Centers

BROOKLINE, MA — With temperatures expected to be in the mid 90s through Wednesday, the Brookline Department of Public Health declared a Heat Emergency in effect until Thursday. The town has opened several cooling centers around town.

"The high temperatures that our area is expected to experience over the next few days can be very dangerous," said Health Commissioner Dr. Swannie Jett in a statement. "We urge everyone to keep cool by limiting time outdoors, taking advantage of town cooling centers and staying hydrated. If residents do spend time outdoors, we encourage you to avoid strenuous activity and protect yourself from the sun."

Monday, temperatures hit 95 degrees in Brookline, with a "feels like" of 104, according to Weather.com. National Weather Forecasters said highs would reach 98 on Tuesday, with a slight chance of thunderstorms after 5 pm.

Wednesday, temperatures are set to stay hot and humid with a high of around 97 in town, with possible thunderstorms overnight. And Thursday, according to National Weather forecasters, the temperature is expected to drop to a "mere" 86.

Outdoor Cooling Center What To Know:

Where: Brookline Public Safety Building Community Room: 350 Washington St

• When: 7 days a week
• Time: 24 hours a day

Where: Brookline Senior Center: 93 Winchester St.

• When: Monday - Friday
• Time: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Where: The Public Libraries of Brookline

• - Main Branch: 361 Washington St.: Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
• - Coolidge Corner Branch: 31 Pleasant St: Monday and Wednesday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.,
• - Putterham Branch: 959 West Roxbury Parkway: Monday and Wednesday 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Where: The Brookline Housing Authority will have air-conditioned community rooms available for residents of 61 Park St., 90 Longwood Ave., 50 Pleasant St., 190 Harvard St. and Colonel Floyd (at 28 Foster St.).

Where: The Evelyn Kirrane Aquatics Center — at 60 Tappan St.

What: Brookline residents may use the pool free of charge for open swim only during designated hours while a heat alert is in effect. Residents can call 617-713-5435 for hours and additional details.

Tips for Preventing Heat Related Illnesses, from the Brookline Emergency Management Team:

• Never leave children, adults or pets alone in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Slow down, avoid strenuous activity.
• Avoid too much sun.
• Plan outdoor games and activities for early morning or evening.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and use air conditioners to cool the air.
• When the temperature is in the 90's, fans will not prevent heat related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath is a better way to cool off.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing that will cover as much skin as possible.
• Protect face and head by wearing a wide brimmed hat.
• Drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty, and avoid alcoholic beverages, drinks with caffeine and large amounts of sugar—these actually cause you to lose more body fluid.
• Use your stove less and try to cook your meals in the cooler part of the day.
• Although anyone at any time can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others.

Check regularly on:

• Infants and young children
• People aged 65 or older
• People who have a mental illness
• Those who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure
• Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Infants and young children, of course, need much more frequent watching.