Westchester Reporter

The National Weather Service has extended a Heat Advisory for Westchester County through 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17. During this period, heat and humidity are expected to combine to make outdoor temperatures feel like 100 degrees.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an air quality advisory through 11 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17 after rating the air quality in the Lower Hudson Valley and New York City metro area as unhealthy for sensitive groups. The unhealthy rating is the third most concerning. Health officials recommend that sensitive groups, such as the very young, the elderly, and the ill, 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 warns residents that these conditions pose significant health risks. To protect themselves, residents are urged to drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and check on vulnerable family members and neighbors.

Westchester County Commissioner of Health Sherlita Amler, MD, said: “Find ways to keep cool during this heat wave. Drink lots of water, be sure your pets have ample water and shade and don’t overexert yourself outdoors when it is so 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. Use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to an air-conditioned place. If you don't have home air conditioning, continue to seek out cool spaces each day as long as it remains hot. 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. Temperatures can quickly rise to unsafe levels; motorists should always look before they lock their vehicles.

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 who plan to travel by car should prepare their vehicle before hitting the road. Check the battery, tire pressure, tread and fluids; bring a spare cell phone charger; spare tire and jack; avoid leaving radios or phone chargers running when the engine is not active; ensure your air conditioning is properly functioning; check coolant levels; if traveling in less populated areas bring water and an umbrella for shade if it becomes necessary to leave the car; always keep air flowing throughout the vehicle; try parking in shaded areas.

For relief from the heat residents can cool off at a County beach or pool: Glen Island Beach in New Rochelle is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Croton Point Beach in Croton-on-Hudson is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; all four pools (Saxon Woods in White Plains; Sprain Ridge Tibbetts in Yonkers Willson’s Waves Mount Vernon) are open daily from 11 a.m.-6:30 p.m., with last entry at all facilities at 6 p.m.; proof of Westchester County residency required at Glen Island Beach all pools admission fees apply parking fees apply at Glen Island Croton Tibbetts.

Residents needing a place to cool off can check Cooling Center Finder when it is too hot at home senior centers libraries community centers indoor malls offer respite from heat call before going ensure hours

Elevated heat humidity can lead unhealthy levels ozone gas produced action 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 1-800-535-1345

County’s Department Emergency Services monitoring weather forecast tracking opening local Cooling Centers contact Con Edison NYSEG concerning potential power outages

For more tips prevent heat-related illness places stay cool 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

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