Stratford Warming Stations Open for Sandy Victims

With colder temperatures and power yet to be restored to more than 1,000 households in Stratford, the Stratford Library (1 p.m. to 5 p.m. ) is just one of several public buildings open as a warming and charging station.

All firehouses and the police station are also open and can serve as a welcome respite for those still without power.

Firehouse locations are as follows:

1. Headquarters, 2750 Main St.;
2. Firehouse #2 1415 Huntington rd.;
3. Firehouse #3 21 Prospect St.;
4. Firehouse #4 200 Oronoque Lane.

In addition, the Stratford YMCA on Main Street is also open for showers. The Birdseye Municipal Complex will be open on Monday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. with charging stations and showers.

Older people may especially be vulnerable to longer periods of no heat. Exercise care and concern for the elderly. If you happen to know of a single elder living alone or with chronic illnesses, give him/her a call or pay a visit or have them call the Hurricane Sandy Hotline at 203.385.4070. Stratford's Emergency Management Team continues to field calls and assist residents as needed.

Here are a few tips to try and keep warm:

• Put on adequate clothing and wear several layers of not too tight or too bulky clothing.
• Always wear a hat and gloves, since ears and fingertips as well as noses are extremely susceptible to frost nip and frost bite.
• Consume hot and easily digestible food and beverages with higher calories, like hot milk, soup, noodles and rice. Remember, alcohol actually accelerates the loss of body heat because it dilates blood vessels, so avoid alcoholic beverages.
• Remain indoors or in places with sunlight. Continue with usual daily activities, but do more exercise to generate heat, improve blood circulation, and maintain flexibility of joints.

For more information on tips regarding power outages, flood damage, etc. please visit the Stratford Health Department's website.