With high heat and humidity in the forecast, the City of Rochester is reminding residents that City Hall and the Rochester Library are designated cooling locations.

City Hall is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Public Library is open Monday through Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Thursdays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Important Safety Tips:

• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine. People who have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease, are on fluid-restricted diets, or have a problem with fluid retention, should consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
• Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.
• Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power during periods of extreme heat. Stay on the lowest floor out of the sun if air conditioning is not available.
• Sign up for NH Alerts to receive emergency information via your mobile and landline phones.
• Check the weather and listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service.

If you must go outside:

• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks.
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Protect your face and head by wearing sunblock and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.

Residents should take action before a heat emergency and can learn more at www.readynh.gov/disasters/extreme-heat.