Outdoors in RI: Weather and Air Quality, The Big Stink, Camping, Farmers Market, Bed Bugs, Sailing

Air Quality Alert Day

TODAY, June 12th, air quality will reach UNHEALTHY levels for sensitive groups due to elevated ground-level ozone on Friday, June 12. An alert is being issued statewide by RI DEM:

Key Details:

• UNHEALHTY ozone levels for sensitive groups are expected across the entire state.
• Peak levels begin early afternoon, continuing into the evening.
• Fine particles are also expected to be elevated, reaching MODERATE.

Health Impacts: Unhealthy ozone levels may cause:

• Throat irritation, coughing, and chest pain
• Shortness of breath and increased risk of respiratory infections
• Worsening of asthma and other lung conditions- particularly for children, the elderly, and others with pre-existing respiratory issues.

Recommended Actions:

• Reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion.
• Take frequent breaks and choose less strenuous activities.
• Monitor for symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.
• People with asthma or lung conditions should follow their action plans and carry quick-relief medications.
• Schedule outdoor activities in the morning when ozone levels are lowest and typically GOOD on the Air Quality index.

Air quality can change throughout the day. To stay informed, download the AirNOW app or visit www.airnow.gov for real-time updates and forecasts.

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World Cup heat warning: Good for us all to know

Expert explains the signs of heatstroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps 

As temperatures climb across the U.S. and the 2026 FIFA World Cup brings tens of thousands of athletes and fans into some of the country’s hottest cities, an expert warns that heat-related illness is a real and preventable danger.  

Owena Cleary, Director of CPR First Aid Training, sets out the key differences between heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke, explains what warning signs to watch for, and offers practical advice for fans, players, and everyday people navigating a hot summer. 

The types of heat-related illnesses

Not all heat-related illnesses are the same, and it is important to understand the different types of illnesses that can affect people. Heat cramps are the mildest form of heat illness. The symptoms include painful muscle spasms, usually in the legs or abdomen, caused by fluid and electrolyte loss through sweating. If someone has heat cramps, they are still alert and their body temperature will remain normal. A person who is experiencing heat cramps should seek shade, rest, and drink something with electrolytes. 

When the body can no longer regulate its temperature, a person can begin to experience heat exhaustion. Their temperature can rise to 104°F, and they can appear confused or feel like they might faint. The other symptoms you might feel or witness are heavy sweating, clammy skin, nausea, headache, or dizziness. To relieve heat exhaustion, a person should relocate to a cool environment immediately and be laid down, with slightly elevated legs. If they are still conscious, they should be given water. If their symptoms do not improve, call for emergency help.

If heatstroke is suspected, it needs to be treated as a medical emergency. The body’s temperature can rise above 104°F, and without prompt treatment, heatstroke causes organ failure and can be fatal.

There are two types of heatstroke people need to be aware of. Classic heatstroke typically affects older adults, young children, or those with underlying health conditions during prolonged heat exposure. Exertional heatstroke occurs in otherwise healthy people during intense physical activity in the heat, which makes it especially relevant to athletes.

During heatstroke, a person’s skin will be hot and red. If they are experiencing classic heatstroke, they might not be sweating at all. They might be nauseous, confused, have slurred speech, or have a seizure. Heatstroke is not a “wait around and see” illness; emergency services need to be called immediately. While you are waiting for help, cool the person by applying ice packs to the neck, armpit, and groin, fan them while misting cool water, and immerse them in cool water if possible.  

Heat-related illness prevention tips  

Cleary says, “Most people know that hydration is one of the most important heat-safety strategies, but it is often misunderstood.” During prolonged or intense activity in hot conditions, drinking excessive amounts of plain water without replacing sodium can, in rare cases, contribute to hyponatremia, a condition in which blood sodium levels become dangerously low. For activities lasting more than an hour, especially when sweating heavily, you should be replacing electrolytes as well as fluids. Replacement options include sports drinks, coconut water, electrolyte solutions, and natural sodium-containing foods. 

The clothes that you wear can greatly affect your day outdoors. If you plan to spend time in hot temperatures, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing since it will reflect solar radiation rather than absorbing it. Wearing synthetic moisture-wicking fabrics can help, but in dry heat, a loose cotton or linen layer can be more effective because it traps a layer of cooler air against the skin. 

Using sunscreen not only reduces your risk for burns and skin cancer, but also supports your body’s ability to cool itself. Sunburn reduces the skin’s ability to shed heat, which makes you feel hotter.  

Be cautious about drinking alcohol in the heat because it is a diuretic and impairs the body’s ability to sense that it is overheating. You should also try to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11am and 3pm. 

More – here: https://cprfirstaid.com.au/first-aid-training-locations/first-aid-course-melbourne/

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Waiting for the Big Stink!

Corpse Flower at URI – has not bloomed in a decade – but now it is coming to life – only to stink up the whole place!

Watching – and waiting – at the live web cam:

Wow – look at how it’s changed since Tuesday! It’s cookin’!

Something Stinky coming our way as URI’s Corpse Flower nears rare bloom

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Farmers Markets

Why not try a new one every weekend?  Have you been to Burrillville’s?

Burrillville Farmers Market at Stillwater Mill Center runs until September 26, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

The Burrillville Market started in 2006, as stated on their website, “to reinvigorate local agriculture.” The market’s location is perfect for allowing a connection between local farms and the community. They do accept SNAP/EBT benefits.

They have a wonderfully friendly and detailed website – check them out, HERE: https://burrillvillefarmersmarket.org

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Munroe Dairy Lineup of Seasonal Treats and Cookout Essentials – they even deliver!

Munroe Dairy announced a new lineup of seasonal drinks and desserts for the summer, available while supplies last via home delivery and at the Sacred Cow Scoop Shop and Market at 187 North Brow Street in East Providence. For more information, visit www.cowtruck.com.

Seasonal sippers include the Watermelon Cucumber Drink, featuring juicy, ripe watermelon blended with subtle hints of cucumber. Sold by the half gallon, it makes the perfect mixer for a summer cocktail.

Munroe now delivers cookout favorites, including Ball Park Franks and Saugys, linguica and chorizo from New England Sausage, Red’s Best fresh, wild-caught seafood from the waters of Massachusetts, and rolls from Calise Bakery.

So! If you’re rushing about and no time to get the fixin’s for a good cookout – think Munroe!

Founded in 1881, A.B. Munroe Dairy is a family-owned dairy and grocery delivery company based in East Providence, Rhode Island, committed to providing the finest quality products delivered with exceptional customer service.  Acquired by the Armstrong family in 1936 and now guided by the fourth generation, Munroe Dairy has grown from traditional milk delivery into a one-stop grocery service offering more than 450+ items, including baked goods, meat and poultry, prepared and frozen foods, and products from local vendors such as Narragansett Creamery, Venda Ravioli, Naked Fig Artisanal Mediterranean Foods and Sacred Cow Granola.

Munroe Dairy also operates the Sacred Cow Scoop Shop and Market at 187 North Brow Street in East Providence, featuring premium hard and soft-serve ice cream and select grocery items. For more information, visit www.cowtruck.com.

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Don’t Let Bed Bugs Check In This Summer: What Every Traveler Needs to Know 

The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) urges summer travelers to stay vigilant against hitchhiking pests this Bed Bug Awareness Week

With millions of Americans packing their bags for hotels, resorts and short-term rentals across the country, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is urging travelers to add one essential item to their pre-trip checklist: prevention. During Bed Bug Awareness Week, June 7–13, 2026, NPMA is shining a spotlight on the persistent threat of bed bugs and equipping consumers with the knowledge they need to avoid these unwanted guests.

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Burlingame State Campground Opens for the Season

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announces the completion of three new shower and restroom facilities at Burlingame State Campground in Charlestown. Reservations will open for the 2026 season through Reserve America on Wednesday, June 10, at 9 AM. The first night to make a reservation is TONIGHT Friday, June 12.

Phase One of the project brings exciting upgrades to the Midpark North, Fish Camp and Mills Camp sections of the campground with the addition of three modern restroom and shower facilities. Designed to enhance visitor comfort and accessibility, the new buildings are ADA-compliant and feature new septic systems, indoor/outdoor coin-operated hot water showers, energy-efficient lighting, and durable, water-conserving plumbing fixtures. The $18M project is funded primarily through the voter-approved 2021 Beach, Clean Water, and Green Economy Bond, along with $2M federal grant. Construction is expected to be fully completed in April 2027.

As with last season, fewer campsites will be available for reservation while the second phase of the project begins. For safety reasons, the campground beach will be closed this season because it is within the active construction area for the Main Camp shower and restroom project. We know this may be disappointing, but there are many nearby options where campers can enjoy the water. The Burlingame State Picnic Area and Ninigret Park, which is managed by the Town of Charlestown, are both just a short drive from the campground and offer wonderful alternative spots for swimming. DEM appreciates campers’ patience as we work to enhance Burlingame’s amenities.

Before reserving a campsite, review this map, to identify available sites and their proximity to active construction areas. Campers near construction zones may experience increased noise, traffic, and temporary disruptions. Construction is scheduled weekdays from 7 AM – 5 PM; no work is anticipated on weekends and holidays. Book your stay at riparks.ri.gov/campgrounds.

First opened in 1934, Burlingame is one of Rhode Island’s first campgrounds. Located next to Watchaug Pond in Charlestown, Burlingame State Campground covers 3,100 acres and is one of the biggest campgrounds in the eastern United States.

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Sail Newport Dedicates Racing Education Center to Jason Titunik

Sail Newport will dedicate the building at 60 Fort Adams Drive as the Jason Titunik Racing Education Center. The building at the sailing center in Fort Adams State Park, was the original main office of Sail Newport, and it has recently been fully remodeled for use by racing sailors in Sail Newport programs, and for racing education. The event will take place on Wednesday, June 24, at 2 p.m. at 60 Fort Adams Drive, Newport.

Jason Titunik (2004 – 2023) started sailing in Sail Newport’s Youth Program at an early age and advanced to compete in the Brenton Cove Racing Program. He loved spending summer days rigging, racing, learning, and having fun on and off the water with his friends and coaches at Sail Newport. His kindness, joyful spirit, and infectious smile will long be remembered by all who knew him. He tragically died in a car accident in 2023.

“We are confident that the Jason Titunik Racing Education Center will inspire sailors of all ages to embrace and excel at sailing and racing, just as Jason did,” says Eve Formisano, director of development for Sail Newport.

The event is open to the public, and RSVPs can be made here: https://sailnewport.org/events/2026-jason-titunik-racing-education-center/. For more information, call Sail Newport, telephone (401) 429-8258.

Artwork Credit: Charlotte Handy

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If you have an event – or know of one – that should be included in our Friday Outdoors in RI column, send it to us at: [email protected]