From making sure that children and pets are not left in cars — even with windows open, to checking in on elderly neighbors, to knowing to call “211” for assistance, Pappas offered tips about how to stay cool, and how RIEMA is helping direct the state’s response.
Pappas also addressed the capacity of the state’s electric grid — and how RIEMA would help respond in the event of a blackout, which he sees as unlikely.
State Agencies, Non-Profits Offer Advice — and Resources
The YMCA of Greater Providence is offering free access to members’ guests this weekend to help beat the extreme heat and humidity expected over the next several days.
Members can invite another family, free of charge, to the Y this weekend at one of the Greater Providence YMCA branch locations: Bayside Family YMCA, Cranston YMCA, East Side Mt. Hope YMCA, Kent County YMCA, Newman YMCA and the South County YMCA. For more information and to find locations visit www.cooloffattheY.org.
The Rhode Island Department of Health is urging those that have special healthcare needs to consider enrolling in the Rhode Island Special Needs Emergency Registry (RISNER).
Enrolling in RISNER lets police, fire, and other first responders to better prepare for and respond to enrollees’ needs during an emergency. When enrolling in the registry, a person provides information about their healthcare needs (for example, information about mobility issues, information about a visual or hearing impairment, information about the use of a life support system, such as a respirator).
For more information or to enroll, visit health.ri.gov/emregistry or call 211/RI Relay 711.
The Department of Health also provided information about symptoms of heat exhaustion — and stroke.
About heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating; weakness; cold, pale, or clammy skin; a fast or weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; and fainting. Individuals who have symptoms of heat exhaustion should move to a cooler location, lie down, loosen clothing, sip water, and apply cool, wet cloths to help cool the body down. Seek medical attention if vomiting begins, or if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour.
About heat stroke
Heat stroke symptoms include high body temperature (above 103 degrees F) combined with hot, red, dry, or moist skin; rapid and strong pulse; confusion; and loss of consciousness. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. 911 should be called immediately. Individuals experiencing heat stroke symptoms should also be moved to a cooler environment. Apply cool cloths or place the person into a cool bath to lower body temperature. Fans and ice packs can also be used to cool someone. Ice packs should be placed on the neck, under the armpit, or in the groin area (because these are the areas where large arteries are closest to the surface of the skin).
Related Slideshow: 20 Ways to Beat the Heat in RI - 2019
Don't let this warm weather keep you from getting in shape.
Head to Providence Fit Body Boot Camp and get in a good workout without having to worry about the heat.
Providence Fit Body Boot Camp writes, "Discover The Providence Fitness Boot Camp That Burns Twice The Fat, Gets You Fit And Challenges Your Body Every Time."
Just over the border, Monster Mini Golf is a great way to beat the heat.
"Monster Mini Golf is a stimulating one-of-a-kind mini golf experience! Imagine 18 holes of glow-in-the-dark beaming blacklight mini golf surrounded by custom designed art and creative and animated props. We have combined wit, humor, and relatable pop-culture and history to create walls of artwork belonging to the town and state of the actual location," said the company on their website.
Go bowling at BreakTime Bowl and Bar at Hope Artiste Village.
"BreakTime is a retro 1920's themed duckpin bowling alley. Offering a nice selection of pub food and a fully stocked bar. Fun for all," writes BreakTime Bowl and Bar on their website.
Brickley’s simply has to be one of the best ice cream shops in the state. Why else would anyone wait in the long lines that form on a hot summer afternoon?
This family-owned Mecca to all things creamy, sweet and delicious is a must-stop before the ride back home from the beach. This is old-fashioned ice cream at its best.
Check out the cool Marine Biology Center in North Kingstown.
It is a great place for both adults and kids to enjoy.
"The Biomes Center is New England's only private marine education facility and the most hands-on aquarium in the region. We've been providing interactive marine biology programs for schools and families since 1989.
We specialize in teaching children and adults about the marine animals of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean," writes Biomes on their website.
