MCC Daily Tribune

Extreme Heat Advice

Extreme heat is one of the most dangerous weather conditions.

Extreme heat is deadly. New Yorkers' bodies are not used to long periods of extreme heat, and this increases our risk. Health risks include dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and worsening of health conditions. Everyone is at risk for heat-related illness, but older adults, children, people who work outdoors, and people with existing health conditions are at more risk of getting sick when it's hot.

Keep kids out of hot cars!

More than half of children who died in a hot vehicle were forgotten by a parent or caregiver. In just 10 minutes, a car can heat up and become deadly.

Keep Cool!

Cool off in air-conditioned spaces for a few hours a day to reduce your risk of heat-related illness.
If you don't have an air conditioner, visit a local cooling center.
Cooling centers are air-conditioned places to cool down during extreme heat. Recreational areas, including spray parks and community pools, are also great places to cool off.

Prepare for the heat.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
Take regular breaks when working or playing outdoors and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day (between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
Plan for heat waves or when indoor temperatures pose a risk of heat-related illness, especially if you are an older adult or caregiver.
Make sure that you can open your windows and/or that your air conditioner is working properly.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about medications that might make you sensitive to the sun or heat.

Learn more at Keep Your Cool During Summer Heat.

Raymond Sabourin
Environmental Health & Safety
06/24/2025