Westchester Reporter

The National Weather Service has extended the Heat Advisory for Westchester County through Sunday, June 23 at 8 p.m. During this period, when heat index values are expected to reach between 95 and 100 degrees, the Westchester County Health Department warns residents that the high temperatures pose significant health risks.

Residents are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and their families from the effects of the heat. Recommendations include drinking lots of water, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities, and checking on vulnerable family members and neighbors.

A Heat Advisory is issued when the combination of heat and humidity is expected to make it feel like it is 95 to 99 degrees for two or more consecutive days or 100 to 104 degrees for any length of time. Seniors and those with chronic health problems are at an increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures. The department advises using air conditioning to stay cool at home or going to a place that has air conditioning. If home air conditioning is unavailable, residents should seek out cool spaces each day as long as it remains hot.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Health Department recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.

Westchester County Commissioner of Health Sherlita Amler, MD said: “People who are most vulnerable to adverse effects from the heat include the very young, seniors, people who are obese and those with high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or lung conditions. Heat stroke and dehydration can surprise you. High humidity, chronic health conditions and some medications can also increase a person’s risk for heat stroke.”

Amler reminded residents never to leave children, pets or people in a car. “To avoid tragedy, never leave infants, children, seniors or pets in a closed car no matter how brief the time,” Amler said. “Closed vehicles can quickly heat up to a life-threatening 140º F or more.”

“During a heat wave, seniors, young children and people with compromised immunity especially should avoid vigorous outdoor activity, seek the shade, spend time in air-conditioned locations and drink lots of water throughout the day,” Amler added. “Especially when they’re swimming and playing in the water, children often forget to drink, so parents and caregivers should prompt children to take breaks to hydrate.”

Those who plan to travel by car should prepare their vehicle before hitting the road by ensuring they have a spare battery and avoiding running radios or phone chargers when the engine is off. It is important to check that air conditioning is functioning properly and coolant levels are adequate. For travel in less populated areas, bringing water and an umbrella for shade if leaving the car becomes necessary is advised. Always keep air flowing throughout the vehicle and try parking in shaded areas.

Residents needing a place to cool off can check the Cooling Center Finder. Senior centers, libraries, community centers and indoor malls offer respite from extreme heat; calling ahead for hours of operation is recommended.

Elevated heat and humidity can also lead to unhealthy ozone levels—a gas produced by sunlight acting on organic air contaminants from auto exhausts among other sources. For updates on air quality visit https://www.airnow.gov or http://www.dec.ny.gov; alternatively call New York State Air Quality Hotline at 1-800-535-1345.

The County’s Department of Emergency Services monitors weather forecasts while tracking local Cooling Centers' opening status; it maintains contact with Con Edison and NYSEG regarding potential power outages. To report an outage call Con Edison at 1-800-752-6633 or NYSEG at 1-800-572-1131.

For tips on preventing heat-related illness and places to stay cool visit www.westchestergov.com/health.

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