Middletown Fire Warns of Frigid Temps, City Opens Additional Warming Area

The Middletown Fire Department is warning of frigid temperatures with extreme lows that are expected to grip the city and surrounding area in the coming days. Residents are urged to stay indoors and seek shelter from these record lows.

The city will keep several public buildings that are fully heated open throughout the weekend for those who may need to warm themselves.

The lobby of the Middletown Police Department, 222 Main Street, open 24 hours a day, will serve as a warming station. Other public facilities such as City Hall and Russell Library on Broad Street during normal business hours. 

Elderly persons are encouraged to use the Middletown Senior Center on William Street. Times of operation over the weekend may change, so it is advised to call (860) 638-4540 first.

If one must go out in the harsh elements, it is important to remember a few simple tips for maximizing warmth:

• Dress in loose fitting layers — tight fitting foot gear and clothing can restrict blood circulation which can cause cold related injuries. Loose fitting clothes will increase the amount of air it can trap which will aid in insulation value. 
• Keep clothing dry — even in cold weather sweat can dampen the inner layers of clothes. For outer layers, try to wear water resistive coats and clothing. Before you enter a heated area, be sure to brush off any snow to reduce the possibility of water soaking the outer layers of clothing. 

It is important to remember that 40 to 45 percent of your body heat is lost from uncovered/unprotected areas of the body such as the head, neck, ankles and wrists, according to Middletown Fire.  

These areas of the body tend to radiate heat and have very little insulation in the form of body fat. Covering the head is vitally important due to the amount of blood that circulates in the head, most of which is at the surface.  

A loss of body heat may lead to hypothermia which is a life threatening condition that occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95 degrees. One of the first signs of hypothermia is shivering and numbness. If you feel the onset of these conditions, it is important to seek shelter immediately. 

The best defense against cold related illness is prevention. Staying hydrated is just as important in cold weather as it is in hot weather, according to Middletown Fire. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, caffeine and nicotine and most importantly, they say, stay warm and dry.

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