(MyKeeneNow) – As temperatures soar in the region this week, residents are seeking refuge from the scorching sun. In the midst of an intense heat wave, here are some essential tips to keep cool and safe:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you further.
  2. Seek Air Conditioning: If possible, spend time in air-conditioned places such as shopping malls, libraries, or community centers during the hottest parts of the day.
  3. Use Fans and Curtains: Use fans to circulate air in your home and close curtains or blinds during the day to block out direct sunlight.
  4. Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors to help reflect sunlight and heat.
  5. Limit Outdoor Activities: If you need to be outside, try to do so during the cooler morning or evening hours. Take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas.
  6. Protect Yourself: Wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat if you must be outdoors. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down.
  7. Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Keep an eye on elderly neighbors, young children, and those with chronic illnesses as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
  8. Avoid Hot Cars: Never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a short amount of time. Temperatures inside a car can rise to dangerous levels quickly.
  9. Stay Informed: Keep updated with weather forecasts and heat advisories from local authorities to stay prepared.
  10. Visit a cooling center where you can go to escape the heat. Here’s a list of them:Wheelock Park and Robin Hood Park swimming pools: Open Monday through Friday 1 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon-5:45 p.m. More information on that is available at KeeneParks.com.Keene Public Library: The building is air-conditioned and open to the public during their regular hours. They’re open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. More information on the library is available at KeenePublicLibrary.org.

    The Keene Family YMCA: The Y will also open their doors to the public as a cooling center. Their hours are 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Friday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, and 8 a.m. to noon on Sunday. Visit keeneymca.org for more information.

    Antrim: James Tuttle Library – Wednesday 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. and Thursday 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

    Claremont: Claremont Community Savings Bank Community Center – Monday-Thursday 5:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

    Dublin: Dublin Library – Tuesday and Thursday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

    Rindge: Rindge Recreation Department Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.