The Swampscott Fire Department hosted a spray event at the Swampscott Middle School || Monica Sager A woman runs through the water with her child || Monica Sager Children ran through the water || Monica Sager 
Firefighters take a break to watch the crowd || Quinn Hitchcock Two girls are enjoying the cool water on the hot Tuesday || Monica Sager The Swampscott Fire Department sprayed children from atop the hill || Monica Sager Children enjoyed the water features || Monica Sager Children play as a small rainbow forms from the mist || Quinn Hitchcock Swampscott Fire Department trucks spray water over people at the Swampscott Middle School field || Solange Jain A firefighter adjusts one of the hydrants supplying the water || Quinn Hitchcock Children and families cool off under the firetruck’s water jets || Quinn Hitchcock
Swampscott children beat the heat Tuesday with help from the town’s fire department, which brought out a truck and hose to spray water across the Middle School field.
As temperatures neared 100 degrees Fahrenheit and an extreme heat warning was issued by the National Weather Service, local children found relief in running through the cooling spray and splashing in the muddy puddles.
According to the National Weather Service, “Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.” The agency urges residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned spaces, avoid direct sun exposure and check in on vulnerable neighbors and relatives.
The heatwave is expected to ease slightly through the rest of the week, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms from Wednesday through Saturday. Forecasted highs for Swampscott, according to the National Weather Service, are:
- Wednesday: 87°F
- Thursday: 71°F
- Friday: 69°F
- Saturday: 70°F
Running through water or getting wet helps with evaporative cooling, which lowers body temperature effectively. Still, residents are reminded to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat.
For those seeking a cooler space, the Swampscott Public Library and Senior Center are open to the public during regular hours.
