Danbury Opens Cooling Centers As Heat Wave Grips Connecticut

DANBURY, CT — Danbury has opened several cooling centers as Connecticut's Hot Weather Protocol remains in effect through Sunday amid a stretch of dangerously hot and humid weather.

Residents can cool off at the following locations:

• Danbury Library (170 Main St.): Tuesday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday-Sunday closed.
• Danbury War Memorial (1 Memorial Drive): Tuesday-Friday 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• New Street Shelter (41 New St.): Open daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Elm Street Shelter (98 Elm St.): Open daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Lake Kenosia Park, Highland Avenue Park, Rogers Park and Candlewood Lake Town Park are also open, with free admission to Candlewood Lake Town Park through July 5.

Connecticut is expected to experience dangerously hot and humid conditions through the holiday weekend, with the hottest weather forecast for Wednesday through Friday.

Forecasters say inland temperatures could approach or exceed 100 degrees, while the combination of heat and humidity may push heat index values above 105 degrees in some areas, increasing the risk of heat-related illness.

Anyone needing a place to get out of the heat can locate the nearest cooling center by calling 2-1-1.

City officials are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, run errands early when possible and check on neighbors who may be vulnerable to the heat.

With the Fourth of July holiday approaching, the American Red Cross is also encouraging residents to drink water regularly, spend time in air-conditioned locations when possible and practice water safety while visiting pools, lakes and beaches.

The organization also recommends never swimming alone and designating a "water watcher" to actively supervise anyone in or around the water.