Maine Emergency Management Agency Urges Residents And Visitors To Avoid Heat Related Illnesses

August 11, 2021

AUGUSTA, MAINE - The Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) reminds residents and tourists of the dangers posed by extreme heat. The National Weather Service (NWS) offices in Caribou and Gray report a multi-day stretch of hot and humid conditions is expected with a heat index in the mid-90s to near 100 in some areas. In addition, temperatures will stay elevated through the night with lows only dropping into the 70s in some locations. This will be a long duration cumulative heat event. A Heat Advisory is in effect from now through 8:00 PM Thursday, August 12 in Cumberland, Androscoggin, Oxford, Sagadahoc, Lincoln, Kennebec, and Waldo Counties. A Heat Advisory is in effect from now until 6:00 PM Thursday, August 12 in Penobscot, Hancock, Washington, Piscataquis, and Aroostook Counties. And a Heat Advisory is in effect now through Friday, August 13 in York County. Relief from the heat is not expected until this weekend.

Folks can prepare for extreme heat by taking the following measures:

• Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.
• Do not rely on fans as your primary cooling device.
• Identify places in your community where you can go to cool off, i.e. the library, shopping mall, or contact your local authorities to find a cooling center nearby.
• Keep windows covered with drapes or shades.
• Weather-strip doors and windows.
• Use window reflectors specifically designed to reflect heat back outside.
• Add insulation to keep heat out.
• Install window air conditioners and insulate around them.
• If you are unable to afford your cooling costs, weatherization, or emergency-related home repairs, contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for help.

To maintain health and safety during extreme heat Mainers and visitors are advised to:

• Never leave people or pets in a closed vehicle on a warm day.
• If air conditioning is not available in your home go to a cooling center.
• Take a cool shower or bath.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Use your oven less to help reduce the temperature in your home.
• If you are outside, find shade. Wear a wide hat to protect your face, sunglasses to shield your eyes, and sunblock to protect your skin.
• Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated.
• Avoid high-intensity activities or outdoor tasks during midday heat, if possible.
• Check on family members, seniors, and neighbors.
• Consider pet safety. If they are outside make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade.
• If wearing a mask, use one that is made of breathable fabric such as cotton. If you feel yourself overheating or have trouble breathing, find a safe space to remove your mask.

For a list of cooling centers in your area contact your town/city office. Please be aware of COVID-19 protocols in place to protect the health and safety of those utilizing these facilities. Additional info about cooling centers can be obtained by calling 2-1-1, texting your zip code to 898-211, or by visiting www.211Maine.org.

More information about protection from heat exhaustion and heat stroke is available at www.Ready.gov.