Every week, North Quabbin Trails Association President Bobby Curley takes his “Tuesday Trekkers” for a local hike. But this Tuesday, he took them somewhere a little different — to the Newton Reservoir in Athol for what he calls a “swimming summer hike.”
“It is three and a half miles of beautiful brook walking with several jump-in-the-water places highlighted by the sandy beach at Newton Reservoir,” he said.
This past weekend, temperatures hit the North Quabbin area and have continued to stay in the 90s through the week. Curley said the hike was the perfect spot to cool down during the summer heat.
According to the National Weather Service, a heat advisory warning was in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday. The forecast for Independence Day shows no sign of the heat letting up, with temperatures forecast to reach a high of 93 degrees.
The National Weather Service recommends limiting strenuous outdoor activities, drinking plenty of water and to never leave kids or pets unattended in vehicles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention outline some of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, heavy sweating and fainting.
The Athol Police Department posted heat-related safety rules from the National Weather Service on its Facebook page this weekend to inform residents of precautions to take when it’s this hot. Some rules include wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing, avoiding protein-rich meals, such as meat, and avoiding alcoholic and caffeinated beverages.
Orange Fire Department also posted tips to beat the heat on its Facebook page, sharing the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. For heat exhaustion, remain in a cool, air-conditioned place or take a cool shower. Call 911 if you or someone near you is having a heat stroke. It is also suggested that you check on others throughout the day.
To stay cool, residents can visit the Athol Public Library, a designated local cooling center. Robin Shtulman, assistant director of the library, said the library is always open to any member of the public, and has air conditioning for those looking to stay out of the heat. She said the library hosts free meals for children ages 18 and younger, so residents can cool off while their kids eat lunch. The library will be closed today in observance of the holiday.
Curley also recommended visiting Lake Mattawa in Orange and Ruggles Pond in the Wendell State Forest for a cool dip on hot days.