Westchester and Rockland County Heat Safety Tips and Local Resources

This week, the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory in effect for Rockland, Westchester, Putnam, and Orange counties from Tuesday, June 18th at 12 p.m. until Wednesday, June 19th at 8 p.m. During this period, heat index values are expected to reach between 95 and 100 degrees, with high temperatures to continue until the end of the week.

High temperatures pose significant health risks, and at Greater Mental Health, we understand that the extreme temperatures this week have an impact on specific populations, especially those who may be taking certain antidepressant, antipsychotic, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and blood pressure medications. Within this article, we provide some important tips and resources for staying cool in order to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Learn the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses

If you or someone you love is part of a vulnerable population or taking a medication that may increase the risk of heat-related illness, it is important to understand the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat exhaustion may look like heavy sweating; cold, pale, or clammy skin; nausea or vomiting; muscle cramps; tiredness or weakness; dizziness; headaches, and/or fainting. In this case, it is advised to move to a cool place, drink water and beverages with electrolytes, and put cool, wet cloths on your body or take a cool bath. If symptoms get worse or last longer than 1 hour, please seek immediate medical attention by calling 911.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency and happens when the body temperature increases to over 103 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat stroke includes many heat exhaustion symptoms, and is also accompanied by confusion, passing out, and hot, red, dry, or damp skin. In this case, call 911 right away. Move the person to a cooler place, help lower their temperature with cool clothes or a cool bath, and do not give them anything to drink.

For more information about heat-related illnesses, please visit the CDC’s website.

Cooling Centers Available in Rockland and Westchester Counties

One quick way to prevent heat-related illness is by staying within an air-conditioned environment when possible. If you do not have access to an air-conditioner at home, there are many free cooling centers located throughout Westchester and Rockland Counties.

Cooling Centers in Rockland County ⟶

Stay cool and stay safe

Knowing the signs and how to prevent heat-related illness is important, especially as we enter the hotter summer months. Along with remaining in cool spaces, it is important to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and practice sun safety.

As always, please contact your medical professional with any specific questions and contact 911 if it is a medical emergency.