Middletown's Ozone Levels on Fri. Dangerous for Sensitive Groups

Temperatures reached 95 degrees Thursday afternoon in Middletown — and Friday is predicted to be another scorcher at 96 degrees. Tthe National Weather Service declared a heat advisory for Northern Middlesex County through Friday at 8 p.m. 

On Friday, Middletown's air quality index is predicted to be 166, which is considered unhealthy ozone levels for sensitive groups, according to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Air pollution levels of ground-level ozone and/or particles are predicted to be in the "unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" or above category. During the warm seasons, unhealthy ground-level ozone concentrations may cause a variety of respiratory problems including breathing difficulty, coughing, and throat irritation. In the cold season, particle pollution predominates.

Residents who are in need of respite from the heat are encouraged to seek air-conditioned comfort in the Municipal Building Council Chambers, 245 Dekoven Drive, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., or in the lobby of the Middletown Police Department, 222 Main Street, which is open 24 hours a day.

Other public facilities will be available such as the Russell Library on Broad Street. The Middletown Senior Center on William Street will also be available. These facilities will be open for public use during their normal hours of operation. The Council Chambers will have bottled water available on a limited basis.

Transportation may be provided to the cooling center. Arrangements can be made by calling Middletown Area Transit at (860) 346-0212 (Ext. 2) until 6 P.M. each day. 

The City of Middletown will also be opening fire hydrant sprinklers though Friday:

• The Highlands Crescent Drive bus stop from 12 to 4 p.m.
• Maplewood Terrace from 2 to 5 p.m.
• Summer Hill Road and Woodbury Circle from 2 to 5 p.m.
• Macdonough School from 12 to 3 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.
• Santangelo Circle from 12 to 3 p.m.
• Daddario Road from 6 to 8 p.m.

• Conserve energy at home and at work by setting your [air conditioner] thermostat at a higher temperature in the summer and a lower temperature in the winter.
• Choose a cleaner commute: share a ride or use public transportation.
• During winter-time particulate matter events, cut back on wood stove use during stagnant atmospheric conditions.
• Reduce use of gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment.
• Refuel motor vehicles after dusk.
• Combine errands and reduce trips. Limit engine idling.
• Use household, workshop, and garden chemicals in ways that keep evaporation to a minimum, or try to delay using them when unhealthy air is forecast.

• City Hall Cooling Center Opens Ahead of Another Heat Wave