Westchester County preps for intense heat

News 12 caught up with Theresa Hedrington, a resident of Mount Vernon, who said she was grateful that the county took this measure to protect its people.

Jade Nash

Jun 18, 2024, 12:12 AM

Updated 112 days ago

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The Westchester County Health Department issued a heat advisory to urge people to protect themselves from the hot temperatures.
The advisory goes into effect from noon on Tuesday until 8 p.m. Wednesday. The county said heat index values are expected to reach between 95 and 100 degrees.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer urged residents during his weekly update to stay hydrated and avoid intense outdoor activities during this period. During the update, Latimer also made a major announcement that could help people beat the heat.
"We're opening our beaches at Glen Island in New Rochelle and Croton Point Park in Croton, opening this week, Wednesday, June 19 through Sunday, June 23," Latimer said.
He said the county is also opening Saxon Woods Pool in White Plains and Sprain Ridge Pool in Yonkers from Wednesday through Friday for the same reason.
"It's going to help people stay cool because more people will come out and the other thing, too, is it'll help keep down the costs because when we're turning down our [air conditioners,] said Theresa Hedrington, a resident of Mount Vernon who was at Glen Island Park on Monday.
Beverley Hines and her family were also spotted at the park on Monday. She said she's visiting from Georgia and explained how she's planning to stay cool these next couple of days while she's in New York.
"We're gonna stay inside as much as we can," Hines said.
Hines said she's specifically worried about heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler shared some of the warning signs.
"You may feel faint or dizzy, you might have...excessive sweating. Your skin could feel cold and clammy," Amler said.
She said if people have these symptoms, she recommends that people head to a shaded area and remove any excess clothing.
She also said people can place ice packs on their bodies to cool themselves down.
Officials said admission fees do apply. Anyone interested in learning more can go to the Westchester County website.