Ways to Stay Cool During Extreme Heat in Amherst
Photo: Romolo Tavani. istock
Source: amherstma.gov
Extreme heat and humidity are expected through Friday, June 12th. This forecasted heat wave marks the first of the season, which is when the risk is highest. Heat-related illnesses and hospital visits often spike during the first stretch of 85°F days because people’s bodies haven’t yet acclimated to higher temperatures. Extreme heat can be dangerous and even life-threatening if precautions are not taken.
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 at Groff Park is operational, and Puffer’s Pond is currently open for swimming. 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) o Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. o Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Jones Library Temporary Location (101 University Drive, Amherst, MA 01002) o Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:15 p.m., Friday from 9:00 a.m. to NOON
- Munson Memorial Library (1046 S East Street, Amherst, MA 01002) o Thursday from 2:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Friday — Closed
- Friday — Closed
- North Amherst Library (8 Montague Road, Amherst, MA 01002) o Thursday — Closed o Friday from 10:00 a.m. – NOON
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 informatiohere.
- Groff Park Spray Pad (72 Mill Lane, Amherst, MA 01002) o 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)
- Open Swim from 4:00 pm to 6:00 p.m.
- Puffer’s Pond (171 State Street) o Sunrise to Sunset o No lifeguard on duty
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:
- 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 informational resource.
For more information, please contact the Public Health Department at 413-259-3077 or email Publichealth@amherstma.gov