We hope to serve each and every one of your medical needs with compassionate and advanced care in your community.

Staying Safe in Extreme Heat

See the resources and tips below to stay cool in extreme heat.

Extreme Heat Safety Tips with Southcoast Health Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Dani Hackner

In extreme heat, it is important to take extra precautions to prevent heat-related illness. We are advising community members to:

Slow down and avoid strenuous activity
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing
Drink plenty of water — even if you are not thirsty

Limit Heat Exposure

Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun
- If you must be outdoors, limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening hours
- Try to rest often in shady areas so your body temperature will have a chance to recover
- Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear a wide-brimmed hat
Do not leave pets outside for extended periods
Never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise almost 20°F within 10 minutes

If you do not have air conditioning:

Stay on your lowest floor, out of the sun. Use fans to stay cool and avoid using your stove and oven.
Consider spending time in air-conditioned public spaces, such as schools, libraries, theaters, and other community facilities
Check with the local authorities or call or Call 2-1-1 to find locations of cooling centers or shelters near you

Extra precautions for those with Asthma or COPD:

Install a humidifier for your home or just your bedroom
Install a dehumidifier if you have a damp basement
Stay inside with your windows closed, away from pollen and other things you may be allergic to
Make sure your medications are filled and take them as prescribed
Always keep your maintenance and rescue inhalers close by
If the cost of medications is limiting your ability to control your disease, speak with your doctor or care manager

Be a good neighbor:

Check on family, friends, and neighbors, especially the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions, those who may need additional assistance, and those who may not have air conditioning.

Check out these summer care tips and reminders for the whole family:

Southcoast Health reminds you to stay vigilant and not ignore your symptoms or injuries. We are your resource for world-class care close to home, including treatment for seasonal illnesses, minor injuries, and more.

As always, if you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Our urgent care centers are also available for less severe injuries or illnesses.

Urgent Care Conveniently Located Near You

If you need quick medical care that you and your family can rely on, find your nearest urgent care location and save your spot in line! We also gladly accept walk-ins, so no appointment is needed.

All locations -Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Fall River, Lakeville, Seekonk & Wareham, MA – are open Monday – Friday 8am-8pm and weekends 9am-5pm.

The Southcoast Health Urgent Care is open to the public, and you do not need to have a Southcoast Physicians Group doctor to visit our urgent care clinic.

If your condition is an emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.