Mayor Michael Venezia has announced the planned opening of a cooling center in town this weekend to help residents stay cool during the anticipated heatwave, reports say.
Reports say that on Saturday and Sunday, the Civic Center at 84 Broad St. will be open from 9:00am until 7:00pm. Water bottles will be available on site. Additionally, the Civic Center will be open 8:30am until 9:00pm on Friday.
“With temperatures expected to approach 100 degrees from Friday through Sunday, it is not safe for anyone to be outside more than a few moments, and we are taking measures to ensure that individuals without shelter can cool off in the Civic Center during the hottest parts of the day,” said Mayor Michael Venezia. “The National Weather Service recommends that residents stay indoors if possible when the sun is at its strongest and burns and heat strokes are more likely to occur.”
All age groups are at risk for heat stroke, so residents are encouraged to take necessary precautions if they have to be outdoors, including wearing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and staying properly hydrated. The heat index will make the temperature feel closer to 110 degrees on Saturday, according to reports.
It is NOT okay to leave a child or pet in a locked vehicle even for a moment as temperatures can rise quite quickly, reports say. It is also imperative to lock all parked vehicles so children cannot accidentally lock themselves inside while playing games like hide-and-seek.
Residents can call the Bloomfield Police Department non-emergency number at (973) 680-4141 if they need accommodations such as transportation to the Civic Center or Police Department.