Tips to stay safe as excessive heat warning creates dangerous conditions across Hudson Valley

According to the Red Cross, extreme heat is among the most dangerous type of severe-weather events.

News 12 Staff

Aug 12, 2021, 10:37 AM

Updated 1,151 days ago

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News 12 meteorologists say today will be the hottest day of the heat wave that is gripping the Hudson Valley and that means dangerous conditions.
The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for most of the region, and health experts are urging people to be smart and safe today.
According to the Red Cross, extreme heat is among the most dangerous type of severe-weather events because this is when it's easy for people to suffer heat-related illnesses.
Here are some ways to stay safe:
  • Drinking enough water is one of the most important things you can do during this type of weather to maintain electrolytes and replace salt lost when you sweat.
  • Stay away from sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
  • Wear appropriate clothing. It should be lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting.
  • Staying in a cool spot is also key. If you don't have air conditioning, head to the mall, movies, your local library and give your town hall or local police a call because they can tell you where cooling centers are set up in your community. Don’t forget to follow COVID-19 regulations.
  • Take a cool shower or bath to cool your body.
  • Do not use an electric fan if the indoor temperature is over 95 degrees. Red Cross officials say that can actually do more harm than good.
  • Try to limit your outdoor activity to when it's coolest, such as morning and evening hours.
  • Listen to your body. If you don't feel right take a break and get someplace cool.
Keith Wheeling says he moved to Yonkers from Florida to escape the heat and that's why the Uber driver says he won't over exert himself. "I'm picking somebody up, I'm going to stay in the air conditioning. And as soon as I go home, I'm going to stay in the air conditioning."
Hilario Dominguez was also playing it safe by finishing his outdoor work early before the sun makes it to the midday sky. "Later it's going to be too hot, way too hot. It's no good to go outside. With this weather, it's better to stay home."
Experts also say this sort of weather can be especially hard on children, seniors and pets and to keep a close eye on them.