County, state, watch heat wave

With the National Weather Service issuing Heat Advisories for the Tri-State area including Westchester County effective from noon today through 10 p.m. tomorrow, Westchester County and New York state have issued advisories of their own.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an air quality advisory through 11 p.m. today, after rating the air quality in the Lower Hudson Valley, New York City metro area and Long Island as “unhealthy” for sensitive groups.

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.

The Westchester County Health Department warns residents that heat, high humidity and poor air quality pose significant health risks.

Westchester County Commissioner of Health Sherlita Amler, said: “The heat can overcome you. Drink lots of water and don’t overexert yourself outdoors when it is this hot and humid. If you leave pets outdoors, be sure they have an abundant supply of water and shade. They need it just like we do.”

Amler said the very young, seniors, people who are obese and those with high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or lung conditions are most vulnerable to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. High humidity, chronic health conditions and some medications can also increase a person’s risk for heat stroke.

People should be alert for signs of heat exhaustion. These signs include headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness and exhaustion, as well as cool, moist, pale or flushed skin. Anyone suffering from heat exhaustion should move out of the sun and apply cool, wet cloths to their skin, according to the county.

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

Amler added, “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 140 degrees F., or more. 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.”

Westchester County says that its Department of Emergency Services is monitoring the weather forecast, tracking the opening of local cooling centers and is in contact with Con Edison and NYSEG concerning the potential for power outages.