Town asks residents to cut back on power, water during heat wave
With a heat index that could reach 109 degrees, an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect for Acton through 8 p.m. Tuesday.
The National Weather Service says it’s not just hot — it’s dangerously hot.
With a heat index that could reach 109 degrees, an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect for Acton through 8 p.m. Tuesday.
In response, the town is asking residents to help blunt the impact, and the Council on Aging is sharing tips to stay healthy.
Due to the hot streak, Acton is facing a shortage of water and power. The town and the Acton Municipal Light Plant are requesting that residents take a few small steps to help everyone stay cool and safe.
The CMLP is asking residents to trim electricity use during peak hours — 5 to 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday — to help avoid higher costs for everyone. The utility suggests cooking dinner on the grill, skipping the laundry, and swapping air conditioning for fans during those times.
The town is also limiting lawn watering. Residents are allowed to water their lawns only on their trash pickup day. That means no irrigation is allowed on Saturdays, Sundays, or Mondays anywhere in town.
With the hot, dry weather continuing this week, officials say following the rules now could prevent tightened restrictions later.
Risk for older residents
The Council on Aging told The Acton Bridge in an email that older adults are especially vulnerable during heat waves, and it recommends that residents 60 and up take extra precautions. That means staying indoors with air conditioning as much as possible.
The Harvey Wheeler Community Center, Main Library, and Fowler Library Branch are available as cooling stations during the heat advisory.
The town said for after-hours help, residents should dial the non-emergency dispatch number at (978) 318-3400.
The COA also recommends drinking water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol. Also, dress for the heat: Wear light colors, loose fabrics, and a wide-brimmed hat if you need to go out. It advised limiting errands to early morning or evening hours and checking in on friends or neighbors who may be at risk.
Also, the COA said, don’t wait to act if something feels wrong. Signs of heat illness, such as dizziness, confusion, nausea, or rapid pulse, are a medical emergency. Call 911 right away.
