Westchester County Issues Heat Advisory

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — With temperatures expected to soar into the mid to high 90s over the next few days, the Westchester County Health Department has issued a health advisory. 

Residents are warned to avoid strenuous activity, drink lots of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine and seek air-conditioned spaces, a press release issued Thursday by the Health Department said.  

Residents should also be wary of heat stroke, a serious, life-threatening condition that claims many lives every year. Symptoms include hot dry skin, shallow breathing, a rapid, weak pulse and mental confusion.

“Heat stroke and dehydration can take you by surprise,” said Dr. Sherlita Amler, the Westchester County commissioner of health. “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.”

Anyone suffering from heat stroke should seek emergency medical treatment immediately. Residents should call 911 if they suspect heat stroke and take immediate action to cool the overheated person while waiting for emergency help to arrive.            

Click here to follow Daily Voice Cortlandt and receive free news updates.