Area residents try to stay cool in stifling heat

BOSTON — If you put off turning on the AC or even bringing out the fans, you may have caved on Friday.

At hardware stores, Boston 25 News found a lot of people who unfortunately found out at the worst time that they weren't ready for the stifling heat.

"This is getting to the point," said Michelle Garland of Quincy.

After a couple of days in a row of high temperatures, people are searching for any way to cool off.

For some, that means installing an air conditioner.

"I think this is the cutoff after yesterday. My kitchen gets really hot," Garland said.

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For others, it means buying a pool, big or small.

"We just decided it was time. The dogs are going crazy and they need a little refreshing water," said Eddy Gibbons of Dorchester.

At Curry Ace Hardware in Quincy, the air conditioners and fans were front and center.

The store is also seeing a huge demand on other cooling items.

"Pools, beach chairs, lots of misters. (People are buying) things to lower the temperature outside because a lot of people are spending this time of year outside," said Mark Vassalli, general manager of Curry Ace Hardware.

But it is not just about comfort. The heat can be dangerous.

"We get a lot of calls for weakness and dehydration this time of year," said Randy Koslowsky of Brewster Ambulance.

The best solution is to stay hydrated, but limit caffeine and alcohol, and stay out of direct sunlight as best you can.

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"Definitely sun screen, and umbrellas. If you are going to be outside, try to limit the exposure to the sun," said Randy Koslowsky of Brewster Ambulance.

And although Friday was the hottest day of the year so far, it's going to be hot again on Saturday so while the sun is down, now might be a good time to make sure you're prepared before the temperatures rise again.

Cox Media Group