The City of Woburn, in collaboration with municipal public safety and other city services and local utility companies, is on deck and prepared to help address any issues that arise as a result of the extreme summer weather conditions over the weekend.
“It’s important for everyone to take some common-sense precautions and always check on your senior neighbors who may live alone or others who have health issues affected by the heat, and, of course, young children,” said Mayor Scott Galvin.
The following is a roundup of some local information about the Recreation Department’s pool and Woburn Public Library schedules, as well as some tips from Eversource to help conserve energy and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency to stay cool over the weekend.
Always call the Fire or Police Department if you need assistance. Woburn Police and Fire public safety services are available 24/7, including weekends and holidays.
From the Recreation Department http://www.woburnrec.com/info/default.aspx
City Pools Hours:
Monday – Friday 10am – 7pm
Saturday 10am – 5pm
Sunday 12pm – 5pm
**Please note that on Saturday 7/20 at East Woburn from 12:30 – 2:30 the pool will be limited to 25 swimmers. During that time frame my lifeguards will each be taking a lunch break so they can get out from this heat and cool down. A lifeguard can only watch a maximum of 25 swimmers in the pool. We will have another staff member there but they are not a lifeguard they are there to help check people in and be of any assistance if the lifeguard needs anything.
The Woburn Public Library is air conditioned and now open on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. If you haven’t checked out the great programs and resources at the newly restored library, it’s the perfect time to stop by and spend some time. For more information, call the Library at 781-933-0148 or go to https://woburnpubliclibrary.org/
The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency recommends precautions including:
- Drink plenty of water; don’t wait until you are thirsty;
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing;
- Stay out of the sun if possible, and when in the sun, wear a hat, preferable with a wide brim, and use sunscreen;
- Avoid strenuous activities if you are outside or in non-airconditioned buildings. If you are working outdoors, take frequent rest and refreshment breaks in a shaded area;
- Never leave children, elderly people or pets unattended in closed cars or other vehicles; and
- Stay cool indoors—if your home is not air conditioned, visit public facilities such as shopping malls and other air-conditioned areas to stay cool.
Eversource also suggests the following energy-saving measures during periods of extreme heat:
Increase the temperature on air conditioners. Keep air conditioners set at a moderate temperature throughout the day as cranking the unit up after work uses more electricity. Programmable thermostats or temperature timers can also help keep costs manageable, especially when away from home.
Keep air conditioner filters and coils clean. Clean air conditioner filters and coils at least every three months. Dirty filters block air flow, reducing efficiency and making it harder to deliver the cool air.
Don’t block air flow. Keep air vents clear of obstructions such as furniture, curtains and rugs. For those with central air and floor vents, consider using vent deflectors to direct and increase the reach of cooled air.
Seal home cracks and gaps. Seal cracks or gaps in walls and outlets, and window and door frames, to keep cool air from escaping and letting hot air in.
Save major appliance use until the evening. Help conserve energy by using appliances like clothes washers and dryers early in the morning or late in the evening, when there is less demand on the electric system.
Stay safe, stay cool and have a great weekend!