Cooling centers open in queens

With temperatures reaching into the triple digits and meteorologists proclaiming this the first official “heat wave” of the summer, the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has announced the opening of cooling centers located throughout the borough.
Each cooling center is air-conditioned and open to the public. To find the nearest, call 3-1-1 or log onto NYC.gov/oem.
The OEM also offers the following tips to help you stay comfortable in the sweltering heat:
• If possible, stay out of the sun. When in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and a hat to protect your face and head.
• Dress in lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
• Drink fluids – particularly water – even if you do not feel thirsty. Your body needs water to keep cool. Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
• Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Cool down with repeated cool baths or showers.
• Never leave children, seniors, or pets in a parked car during periods of intense summer heat.
• Make a special effort to check on neighbors, especially seniors and those with special needs.
• Report open fire hydrants by calling 3-1-1.
• Recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, headache, weak pulse, dizziness, exhaustion, fainting, nausea or vomiting, and cold, clammy skin. Body temperature will seem normal.
Heat Stroke: Symptoms include flushed, hot, dry skin, weak, or rapid pulse, shallow breathing, lack of sweating, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and unconsciousness. Body temperature will be elevated, and victim should receive immediate medical attention.
You can learn more about how to stay cool all summer long with OEM’s Ready New York: Beat the Heat guide. For more information about heat-related hazards and the Ready New York campaign, visit NYC.gov/oem or call 3-1-1.