Morristown Opens Pool and Cooling Centers to Combat Heat Wave

With the heat bearing down on New Jersey this week, Morristown officials have taken measures to provide relief from the heat that is expected to sit above 90 degrees for most of the week.

Cooling centers have been established at the following locations to help those citizens seeking comfortable and sweat-free conditions:

• Morristown Town Hall Senior Center, 200 South Street - Monday, July 25th through Friday, July 29th from 8:30am - 4:30pm.
• Fire House, 161 Speedwell Avenue - open through Sunday evening/Monday Morning 24/7

Additionally, Mayor Dougherty has made the Burnham Park Pool free to all Morristown residents throughout the week. For pool access, residents simply need to provide an ID to show proof of residency to be admitted free of charge.

Town officials also provided a list of measures that can be taken to stay safe and hydrated in the hot weather:

• If possible, stay indoors in an air-conditioned environment, especially the young and the elderly. If your home or apartment is not air conditioned, consider going to an enclosed shopping mall, a public library or a designated cooling center.
• Remember to check on your neighbors, family and friends — especially the elderly — to make sure they are well. Take them extra water or a cool beverage.
• Never leave anyone unattended in a closed vehicle, including pets!
• Make sure your pets also have easy access to water and a cool place to stay.
• Close blinds and drapes to block out direct heat. Use energy efficient fans as alternative.
• Use major appliances in early morning or after 7 p.m., when energy demand is lower.
• Turn off lights, air conditioners, computers, televisions, and other electronics when not in use.
• If your work or recreation plans mean you must be outdoors during hot weather, please consider the following:
• Air quality can easily degrade during hot weather. If you have heart disease, asthma or other lung disease, minimize outdoor activity to reduce heat-related illness.
• Symptoms of dehydration and heat cramps include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, headaches, muscle cramps and increased thirst.
• Wear light and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Drink water often. Do not wait until you are thirsty.
• Avoid or reduce unnecessary exertion or vigorous exercise, whether outside or in a non-air conditioned building, especially during peak heat hours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Seek shady spots; wear a hat, preferably with a wide brim and use plenty of sunscreen.

Have your own special way of beating the heat? Share it below in the comments.