NORTHAMPTON — With a heat wave on its way, the city plans to open a cooling center at the Northampton Senior Center next Monday through Wednesday.
The cooling center will be open to the public at 67 Conz St. from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The forecast calls for temperatures to reach the low- to mid-90s throughout most of next week, according to the National Weather Service.
The city will follow CDC guidelines while operating the center to ensure safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the mayor’s office. The center will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected by staff day and night. Masks must be worn by all visitors, a COVID-19 screening form must be signed, and contact information must be provided upon arrival. Masks and hand sanitizer also will be available and social distancing measures will be enforced while inside the building. The city is advising anyone who feels sick to stay at home and contact their primary care provider.
The cooling center is an effort to reduce heat stress, a condition that can affect all ages but poses a particular threat to the young and the elderly. Some symptoms of heat stress include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and thirst, and in serious cases can cause lasting damage, or be fatal. For additional information on heat-related illnesses, and how to address them, visit www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/warning.html.
For additional questions regarding the cooling center, or if one is in need of any heat-related help, contact Northampton Public Safety at 413-587-1100.
— ESTHER MUHLMANN