Hudson Valley braces for scorching hot temperatures

If you plan on taking advantage of the summer-like weekend, it's important to remember to protect yourself when you're out in dangerous heat.
This is going to really be a shock to the system because normally by the time we start experiencing 90 degree heat, we've gotten into the mid- and upper-80s so we get acclimated.
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Stephanie Dunn Ashley, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross, says staying hydrated is very important.
"Stay hydrated and keep yourself, your temperature cold," says Ashley. "A normal amount of hydration per day per person is about three quarters of a gallon."
Here are some suggestions from the Red Cross on how to stay safe during hot weather days:
  • Stay hydrated - it helps to prevent overheating. Drink lots of fluids throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty, and avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine.
  • Slow down and take a break. Stay indoors if it feels too much for you, especially if you are working outside.
  • Be smart about what you wear, make sure you have on loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Never, ever leave children or pets in the car on a hot day.
  • Remember these temps are harder on the little ones and elderly, so keep an eye on them.  
Doctors say it's really important to pay attention to how you are feeling to avoid heat stroke. 
"You're going to feel thirsty, you're going to feel dehydrated, your body has to listen to those signs," says Dr. Adrienne Wasserman, medical director at Good Samaritan Hospital.
Also watch out for your pets. When the pavement gets hot, their paws can burn. Hot weather is very hard on them so you may just want to keep them inside. "You have to be very careful. Keep them in air conditioning under those circumstances, they have a furry coat on that they can't take off," says Gene Musso, of Rye.
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano says, "Be ever mindful of vulnerable people who live with and around us and make sure that they are watched as we get through these first couple days of heat."
Unfortunately, pools and beaches are not officially open yet. But people will likely be out here with no lifeguards on duty, so drowning risk increases.