Nassau County Executive Laura Curran joined Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Eisenstein and Office of Emergency Management Commissioner Steven Morelli to urge residents to take precautions ahead of potentially dangerous high temperatures and humidity affecting the region later this week. Temperatures in the low to mid-90s Friday through Sunday are expected with very high humidity.
“With the temperature set to rise, the combination of heat and humidity can become unbearable and dangerous for many of our residents—especially for young children and seniors. I urge residents to take precautions and I encourage everyone to beat the heat by visiting our many indoor museums, six county pools, and cooling centers available throughout the county,” said County Executive Curran. “Check on neighbors who may be at risk and limit time outdoors and strenuous activity to ensure that you and your family remain safe and healthy during this stretch of extreme heat.”
“I encourage all to take the necessary precautions to stay as cool as possible,” said Commissioner Dr. Eisenstein. “People who are susceptible to heat related illnesses including young children, the elderly, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work, and those who have respiratory diseases such as asthma should take necessary steps to stay cool as temperatures rise.”
“The Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor weather conditions and support any efforts necessary to provide and protect our 1.4 million residents,” said Commissioner Morelli. “We ask for responsibility and vigilance when subjecting yourselves or others to temperature extremes. Drinking fluids constantly is the best way to prevent dehydration. Water is preferred, but any cool liquids are just as important.”
The county has opened its cooling centers to the public for residents to cool down in the air-conditioning on days of extreme temperatures. The following cooling centers—offered by Nassau County—will be open from 10 a.m to 6 p.m:
- Mitchel Field Complex – 1 Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Uniondale – 516-572-0400
- Wantagh Park Community Center – 1 King Road, Wantagh – 516-571-7460
- Grant Park – 1625 Broadway, Hewlett – 516-571-7821
- Cantiague Park – 480 West John St., Hicksville – 516- 571-7058
The Nassau County Department of Health also offers the following information for residents to protect themselves and others during high temperatures:
- Check on relatives and friends, especially the elderly.
- Increase time spent in an air-conditioned environment.
- Drink fluids—especially water. Avoid beverages that contain alcohol, caffeine and sugar.
- Take cool baths.
- Individuals especially at risk, such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses should refrain from physical activity, avoid being alone, keep their sleeping area well-ventilated, and avoid falling asleep in a hot room.
- Eat light, but nutritious foods.
- Avoid the sun at the hottest times of the day.
- Wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothing.
Elderly people, infants, and many individuals with chronic medical conditions are at high risk for heat-related problems and should be very cautious about exposure. If any person experiences heat stroke or exhaustion, get medical help immediately.
Symptoms of heat-related illnesses may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, vomiting and low pulse rate. Other symptoms may include cold pale and clammy skin or hot, flushed dry skin.
As a reminder do not leave children or pets in cars. Even in cool temperatures, cars can heat up to dangerous temperatures very quickly. Anyone left inside is at risk for serious heat-related illnesses or even death. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise almost 20° F within the first 10 minutes. Children and pets that are left unattended in parked cars are at greatest risk for heat stroke, and possibly death. When leaving your car, check to be sure everyone is out of the car. Do not overlook any children or pets that have fallen asleep in the car.
For the latest advisories and information, residents should visit www.nassaucountyny.gov/OEM or call 516-573-0636.
