WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. — With temperatures soaring towards 90 degrees on Monday, the Westchester County Health Department has issued a county-wide heat advisory.
Residents are advised to avoid strenuous activity, drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages, and take precautions to prevent heat-related illness.
The Health Department also stated to residents to be alert for symptoms of heat stroke.
Symptoms include hot, red, dry skin; shallow breathing; a rapid, weak pulse; and confusion. Anyone suffering from heat stroke needs to receive emergency medical treatment immediately. Call 911 if you suspect heat stroke and immediately cool the overheated person while waiting for emergency help to arrive.
“Heat stroke and dehydration can take you by surprise,” Westchester County commissioner of health Dr. Sherlita Amler said in a statement. “The elderly, young children and those with high blood pressure, heart disease, or lung conditions need to be especially careful to avoid heat-related illnesses. High humidity and some medications can also increase a person’s risk for heat stroke.”
While less dangerous than heat stroke, heat exhaustion also poses concerns. Seniors, children up to age four, people who are overweight or who have high blood pressure and those who work in hot environments are most at risk. Signs include headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness and exhaustion, as well as cool, moist, pale or flushed skin. People suffering from heat exhaustion should be moved out of the sun and have cool, wet cloths applied to their skin.
For more information, visit the Westchester County Health Department Website.