DEAR SUN SPOTTERS: I know you won’t see this until Friday but I don’t feel like I’d be doing my job as Ms. Sun Spots if I didn’t share this information with those of you who may not have internet services and/or access to all the social media options. 

When you read this, hopefully the extreme heat conditions will be winding down, but this is useful information to save if and when we experience this situation again. 

We all know that high heat and humidity lead to a significant increase in heat-related illnesses and even death. Especially when there is accumulated heat stress with conditions such as overnight lows only falling into the 70s, our bodies don’t get the relief they need to recover from daytime high temperatures in the 90s and above.

Sometimes during these heat waves, there is a greater possibility of thunderstorms which may cause power outages so depending strictly on air conditioning isn’t always an option.

During these times, it’s important to be proactive. You may think you’ll be OK but go ahead and locate a cooling center near you in case you need it. To find information, go to https://www.maine.gov/mema/response-recovery/mass-care or call 211.

In Sun Spots Land, the cooling centers listed on this website for this heat wave include Auburn Senior Community Center, 48 Pettengill Park Road.; Auburn Public Library, 49 Spring St.; Alter L/A Shelter, 70 Horton St., Lewiston; Lisbon Police Department Lobby, 300 Lisbon St., Lisbon.

The HILLS Recovery Center, 15 Tannery St., Norway; Fryeburg Recreation Center, upstairs in the Senior Center, 59 Recreation Drive; Poland Town Hall (temporary library location in the basement) 1231 Maine St.;  Wales Town Office, 175 Centre Road; and Mechanic Falls Fire Rescue building, 106 Lewiston St.

It’s best if you check the website above or call 211 if there is another time this summer when a high temperature advisory is in effect. 

Also, if you can, why not visit air-conditioned places such as shopping malls and stores, cafes, libraries, or even take in a matinee.

Take care of yourself, your family members, and neighbors. Stay hydrated, have ice and cool snacks on hand, (having some wet hand towels in the fridge is nice). If you do have air conditioning in your home, invite others who don’t have it over for a visit. 

Don’t forget about pets and livestock. Make sure they have access to water and as much shade and sun protection as possible. You may also want to set out water for song birds and other wildlife.

If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, keep your blinds and drapes closed during the day. Then once the sun goes down, use fans to blow out the warm air. When it’s time for sleep, set the fans to pull in the cooler night air. If you do have a cooling system, keep it clean and in good working order. 

Please share this information, stay safe and assist others if you can. If you want to share any tips for staying cool or have a story about how you survived this heat wave, please share. 

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to [email protected].