Ways to Stay Cool During Extreme Heat in Amherst

Source: amherstma.gov

Extreme heat and humidity are expected through Thursday, July 17. The Town of Amherst offers a variety of ways to stay safe and cool during these forecasted conditions. Cooling centers are open during limited hours, the spray pad is operational, and free water stations are available. The public pools are also open and can be accessed with a paid pool membership or daily pass. 

Cooling Centers & Water Stations
The following locations have been identified as cooling centers available to all in need of a safe and cool space. These are municipal buildings that are air conditioned and will be open during their normal operating hours. All cooling centers will also have free water stations available except North Amherst Library. Water stations may include free water bottles and/or water fountains to fill cups and bottles. 

• Bangs Community Center (70 Boltwood Walk, Amherst, MA 01002)
  • Tuesday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 
  • Wednesday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 
  • Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

• Jones Library Temporary Location (101 University Drive, Amherst, MA 01002)
  • Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. 
  • Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. 
  • Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. 

• Munson Memorial Library (1046 S East Street, Amherst, MA 01002)
  • Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. 
  • Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 
  • Thursday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

• North Amherst Library (8 Montague Road, Amherst, MA 01002)
  • Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 
  • Wednesday from 3:30 p..m. to 7:30 p.m. 
  • Thursday – closed 

Outdoor Facilities
Below are other areas around Amherst where the public can seek relief from the heat. The public pools are open and can be accessed with a paid pool membership or daily pass. View all Amherst outdoor pools information here.

• Groff Park Spray Pad (72 Mill Lane, Amherst, MA 01002) 
  • Free and open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (except for Tuesdays when the spray pad opens at 12:00 p.m.) 

• Mill River Pool (95 Montague Rd, Amherst, MA 01002)
  • Typical hours for Monday through Friday: 
  • Lap Swim from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 
  • Open Swim from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. 
  • Open Swim from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 
  • View Mill River Pool Calendar for updated daily schedule.

• War Memorial Pool (Mattoon St, Amherst, MA 01002)
  • Typical hours for Monday through Friday:   
  • Lap Swim from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. 
  • Open Swim from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. 
  • Open Swim from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 
  • View War Memorial Pool Calendar for updated daily schedule.

Additional Tips and Resources
Heat stress is a serious condition that poses a health threat to many people, particularly the elderly and young children. Heat stress places a strain on the body, and if the strain becomes too great, it can cause serious and permanent damage, even death. Preventive measures should be taken to avoid heat stress. Here are some tips to follow during hot, humid weather:   

Here are some tips to follow during hot, humid weather:  

• Slow down, avoid strenuous activity, and drink plenty of water regularly/often, even if you do not feel thirsty.  
• Stay cool indoors (in an air-conditioned place) as much as possible.  
• If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Electric fans do not cool the air, but they do help evaporate sweat, which cools your body.  
• Take a cool shower or bath to cool yourself off.  
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers.  
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.  
• Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals. Avoid high protein foods that increase metabolic rate.  
• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle.  
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors. 
• Prevent and treat heat-related illnesses using this resource.

For more information, please contact the Public Health Department at 413-259-3077 or email publichealth@amherstma.gov