Press Release  MassDOT Urges Public to Prepare for Extreme Heat

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and Secretary and CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt are advising the public to plan ahead for the extreme heat that is forecasted this week, with temperatures at or above 90 degrees and heat index values, or “real-feel” temperatures, several degrees higher.

“The public should prepare for extreme heat. Heat-related illnesses can be prevented or mitigated by drinking plenty of fluids, staying indoors if possible, and traveling during hours of the day when the sun is at its lowest point in the sky,” said Secretary Tibbits-Nutt. “We are urging our workforce to take the proper safety precautions and encourage members of the public to protect themselves and their families.”

"We are encouraging anyone who has to work outside, including our highway crews, to take steps to keep themselves safe, especially Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday,” said Jonathan Gulliver, Highway Administrator. “The traveling public should also be aware that the operation of certain transportation infrastructure, especially moveable bridges, may be adversely impacted by the heat.”

The MassDOT Highway Division District Directors will work with employees to limit responsibilities on extreme heat days and take frequent breaks to hydrate.

The Highway Division will be monitoring the operation of some of the state’s bridges, such as drawbridges, which can sometimes have extreme heat impacts on the equipment used to raise and lower bridges.

Travelers are advised to check their vehicles before leaving on trips to ensure radiators have sufficient coolant and that other fluid levels are keeping with safe operation. Anyone driving is also advised to plan trips during the cooler times of the day, in the early morning or late afternoon hours. Drivers should plan to pack water in addition to other items packed for a trip.

Most heat-related illnesses occur because the victim has been over-exposed to heat or has over-exercised for his or her age and physical condition. Although anyone can suffer from a heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Those at greater risk include older adults, young children and those who are sick or overweight. To reduce the risks of extreme heat conditions, take the proper safety precautions to protect yourself and your family.

Additional guidance to prepare for the heat includes: 

• Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise almost 20°F within 10 minutes.
• Slow down and avoid strenuous activity.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect heat and sunlight, and help maintain normal body temperature.
• Drink plenty of water — even if you are not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and liquids high in sugar or caffeine. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink, ask how much you should drink during hot weather.
• Eat well-balanced, light, regular meals.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. Do not leave pets outside for extended periods of time.
• If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours. Try to rest often in shady areas so your body temperature will have a chance to recover. Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
• If you do not have air conditioning, stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Avoid using your stove and oven.
• Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off. Consider spending time in air-conditioned public spaces, such as schools, libraries, theaters, and other community facilities.
• Check with your local authorities or Call 2-1-1 to find locations of cooling centers or shelters near you.
• Know the symptoms of and watch out for heat-related illnesses. Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies.
• Be a good neighbor. Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions, those who may need additional assistance, and those who may not have air conditioning.

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