Westchester Reporter

The National Weather Service has extended a Heat Advisory for Westchester County through 8 p.m. on Friday, August 2. During this period, heat and humidity are expected to combine to make outdoor temperatures feel like 100 degrees. With temperatures expected to reach 97 degrees on Saturday, the heat advisory could be extended through Saturday, August 3.

With heat, humidity, and air quality in mind, the Westchester County Health Department reminds residents that these conditions pose significant health risks. To counter the effects, 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: “A slower pace is best during a 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 said: “To avoid tragedy, never leave infants, children, seniors or pets in a closed car no matter how brief the time. Closed vehicles can quickly heat up to a life-threatening 140º F or more.”

Those who plan to travel by car should check their tire pressure, tread and fluids; bring a cell phone charger; spare tire; jack; ensure coolant is at the proper level; bring water; an umbrella for shade if it becomes necessary to leave the car; keep air flowing throughout the vehicle; try to park in the shade.

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., Saxon Woods in White Plains is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Sprain Ridge and Tibbetts in Yonkers are open daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Willson’s Waves in Mount Vernon is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; last entry at all facilities is at 6 p.m.; proof of Westchester County residency required at Glen Island Beach and all pools; admission fees apply; parking fees apply at Glen Island Beach Croton Point Beach Tibbetts Brook Park Pool.

Residents who need a place to cool off also can check the Cooling Center Finder for locations such as senior centers libraries community centers indoor malls offering respite from the heat (call ahead for hours).

Elevated heat and humidity can lead to unhealthy levels of ozone produced by sunlight acting on organic air contaminants from auto exhaust other sources (for updates visit https://www.airnow.gov New York State Department of Environmental Conservation forecasts daily ozone conditions at http://www.dec.ny.gov call New York State Air Quality Hotline at 1-800-535-1345).

The County’s Department of Emergency Services monitors weather forecasts tracks opening local Cooling Centers contacts Con Edison NYSEG concerning potential power outages.

For more tips on preventing 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.