Amidst a heat advisory that the National Weather Service has issued for New York—beginning Thursday, Aug. 4 at 11 a.m. until Friday, Aug. 5 at 8 p.m.—the New York City Emergency Management Department and the Health Department provided an advisory recommending that New Yorkers take the necessary precautions to beat the heat.
With the heat index forecasted to reach the mid 90s to low 100s on Thursday, as well as the mid to upper 90s on Friday, New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol says that it is important that New York citizens do what they can to stay safe during these potentially very hot and humid days.
“Dangerous heat and high humidity are returning to New York City this week and we encourage New Yorkers to take precautions to avoid exposure to the extreme conditions,” Iscol said. “Remember to stay hydrated and if you are venturing outdoors, avoid strenuous activity, and wear lightweight clothing.”
Other health and safety tips the NYC Emergency Management Department and Health Department offered includes going to air-conditioned locations, staying out of the sun and finding shade when possible, cooling off with cold baths/showers or by going to a swimming pool, eating small meals frequently, as well as recommending against leaving children and pets in vehicles, even for short time periods.
Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan says it is also important that New Yorkers look after others during the extreme heat.
Vasan recommends checking in on friends, family members, and neighbors who could potentially be at risk to illnesses caused by the heat, especially older adults and anyone who is experiencing mobility challenges.
It is advised that if you or someone you know is feeling weak or faint, to go find a cool place and drink water, and to call 911 if no improvement occurs.
It is also advised that you call 911 if you or someone you know is experiencing hot dry skin, trouble breathing, rapid heartbeat, confusion, disorientation, dizziness, as well as nausea and vomiting.
In the press release, the NYC Emergency Management Department also says that New York City will also open up cooling centers to offer relief from the heat.
The city opens up cooling centers when the heat index is forecasted to be 95 degrees or higher for two consecutive days, as well as when the heat index is forecasted to be 100 degrees or above for any amount of time.
Cooling centers that are located at older adult center sites will be reserved for New Yorkers that are ages 60 and older. There will also be cooling centers that are available specifically for any New Yorkers with pets who need to cool off. Service animals are allowed at all cooling centers.
To find a cooling center near you, or to find additional information and tips on how to stay safe during the heat, you can visit NYC.gov/beattheheat.
To find outdoor cooling options in your area, you can view them online at the Cool It! NYC webpage.
