Dan Gaiewski

• Extreme Hot Weather Protocol
• Citation Presentation for the Story of the Amistad Performance
• Juneteenth Celebration at Hempsted House
• New London Students Graduate with Nursing Credentials
• Avoiding Travel Scams

Due to an anticipated stretch of high temperatures, the state is activating its Extreme Hot Weather Protocol, effective at noon on Sunday, June 22. The protocol will remain in effect through at least 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25.

This is the first time this year that the protocol is being activated. The current forecast calls for temperatures to exceed 90 degrees over this period, with a heat index that could range from between 100 to 105 degrees.

The purpose of activating the protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the hot conditions. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies, municipalities, and other partners to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 to make sure that information regarding cooling centers is available statewide, providing a location for those in need of relief.

Cooling centers will be available throughout the state. Anyone in need of a place to get out of the heat can locate their nearest cooling center by calling 2-1-1 or viewing the list that will be published online at 211ct.org.

As you make plans to travel this summer, it is important to stay alert, especially when it comes to scams targeting travelers like you.

There is a rise in fraudulent websites posing as legitimate services offering to assist travelers with passport and visa documentation. These sites charge users fees to access application forms, which are free through the official U.S. Department of State website. These sites aim to collect your private and personal information, and charge for unnecessary fees.

How to spot these scams:

· Be cautious of third-party sites with URLs that do not end in ".gov"

· Avoid advertisements that promote "fast results" or "shortcuts" for obtaining your passport or visas

Make sure you are planning ahead of your trip by researching official passport processing times directly through the U.S. Department of State and give yourself plenty of time to obtain your documentation before your scheduled trip to avoid looking for a fast solution and becoming a victim of one of these scams. If you come across a suspicious website, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/

Keep you and your family safe while traveling this summer by staying informed and aware of any potential scams. Safe travels!