Dedham Board of Health News Corner

Extreme Heat Alert: Stay Safe, Dedham!

With temperatures soaring into the 90s and heat index values expected to exceed 100°F this month, the Dedham Health Department is urging all residents to take precautions to prevent heat-related illness.

What You Need to Know

• Peak Danger Hours: 11 AM – 4 PM
• Cooling Centers: Open daily (see below)
• Who’s at Risk?
  • Older adults (65+)
  • Young children
  • People with chronic illnesses
  • Outdoor workers
  • Residents without AC

Tips to Beat the Heat

• Stay Cool: Spend time in air-conditioned places. If you don’t have AC at home, visit public spaces like the library, community center, or a local café.
• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks.
• Dress Smart: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Limit Outdoor Activity: Reschedule strenuous activity to early morning or evening.
• Check on Neighbors: Especially elderly or medically vulnerable residents.
• Never Leave Children or Pets in Cars: Not even for a minute.

Local Places to Cool Down (Free & Open to All)

• Dedham Public Library: 43 Church Street,  Mon–Sat | 9 AM – 5 PM | (781) 751-9284
• Dedham Senior Center (Ames Senior Center): 450 Washington Street, Mon–Fri | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM | (781) 751-9495
• Dedham Public Safety Building: 26 Bryant Street, Mon–Sun | All Hours | (781) 751-9300

Other Resources

• Extreme Heat Page: A central hub for resources, tools, and guidance to stay safe during periods of extreme heat. (https://www.mass.gov/extreme-heat)
• Unhealthy Heat Forecast Page: Track upcoming heat conditions in your community with a 7-day forecast and color-coded risk levels. (https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-unhealthy-heat-forecast)
•  Expanded Fact Sheet for Multi-unit Residential Properties: (https://www.mass.gov/doc/housing-extreme-heat-best-practices-for-multi-unit-residential-rental-properties-with-limited-cooling-options/download)

From Your Board of Health,
Emma Reidy, Chair
Leanne Jasset, Vice-Chair
Bernadette Chirokas, Member