Westchester Reporter

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for Westchester County, effective from 12 p.m. Monday, July 8 through 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 9. During this period, heat and humidity are expected to combine to make outdoor temperatures feel close to 100 degrees.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has also issued an air quality advisory through 11 p.m. Monday, after rating the air quality in the Lower Hudson Valley and New York City metro area as unhealthy for sensitive groups. This rating is the third most concerning level.

Health officials recommend that sensitive groups, such as the very young, elderly, ill, and especially those with respiratory conditions, remain indoors and limit their physical activity. With heat, humidity, and air quality in mind, the Westchester County Health Department is warning residents that these conditions can pose significant health risks.

Westchester County Commissioner of Health Sherlita Amler stated: “Please take this heat seriously. Drink lots of water and don’t overexert yourself outdoors when it is this hot and humid. 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.”

Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures. Residents are advised to use air conditioning or go to an air-conditioned place if they do not have home cooling systems. It is recommended to seek out cool spaces each day as long as it remains hot and check on vulnerable friends, family members, and neighbors.

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

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.”

Amler continued: “During a heat wave, seniors and young children especially should avoid vigorous outdoor activity; seek the shade; spend time in air-conditioned locations; and drink lots of water throughout the day. 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 planning travel by car should prepare their vehicle before hitting the road by ensuring proper functioning of air conditioning systems and maintaining coolant levels. If traveling in less populated areas bring water and an umbrella for shade if it becomes necessary to leave the car.

Residents can cool off at county beaches or pools such as Glen Island Beach in New Rochelle open daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Croton Point Beach open Wednesdays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Saxon Woods Pool in White Plains; Sprain Ridge Pool; Tibbetts Pool in Yonkers; Willson’s Waves Pool in Mount Vernon—all open daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., with last entry at all facilities at 6 p.m.

Proof of Westchester County residency is required at Glen Island Beach and all pools where admission fees apply along with parking fees at Glen Island Beach Croton Point Beach Tibbetts Brook Park Pool Residents needing places to cool off can check Cooling Center Finder Senior centers libraries community centers indoor malls offer respite from heat but calling ahead for hours is recommended

Elevated heat humidity may lead unhealthy ozone levels produced sunlight organic contaminants auto exhaust other sources For updates visit https://www.airnow.gov The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation forecasts daily ozone conditions http://www.dec.ny.gov call New York State Air Quality Hotline at1-800-535-1345

County's Department Emergency Services monitoring weather forecast tracking opening local Cooling Centers contact Con Edison NYSEG potential power outages For more tips prevent heat-related illness places stay cool residents visit Health Department website www.westchestergov.com/health Subscribe weekly My Westchester e-mail newsletter highlights selected events current week Enter submit e-mail address