Many people like summer sunshine, but too much heat can be dangerous and unhealthy. Hot and humid weather can cause heat illness and even death. If you or someone you know has these symptoms, you need to cool down quickly!
- Heavy sweating
- Muscle cramps
- Light headedness, feeling faint
- Headache
- Decreased energy
- Loss of appetite, nausea
Luckily, New York City has increased the number of ways to Keep Cool during heat emergencies. The parks department has concentrated on water features, drinking fountains, and tree cover as ways to beat the heat outside.
Here’s a link to a map of all the places where you can cool off:
https://www.nycgovparks.org/about/health-and-safety-guide/cool-it-nyc
Spray showers are fun and feel great for kids. The sprinklers are turned on when the temperature reaches 80 degrees F. These are indicated on the map as well as the beaches and outdoor pools that are open to all. NYC even provides free sunscreen at the pools.
There are thousands of drinking fountains across the city – even some for pets!
The map also shows the parks with thick tree coverage, as well as the shadiest blocks to walk.
Another option: If you’re looking for a fun and safe way to beat the heat, consider requesting an official hydrant opening. You can go to your local firehouse and they might open and close a hydrant safely for you.
And if you’re not an “outdoors person,” NYC has many cooling centers. They are located in air-conditioned facilities that offer people relief from the heat, such as:
- Libraries
- Community centers
- Senior centers
- NYCHA facilities
To find a cooling center: https://maps.nyc.gov/oem/cc/
Most important: drink lots of water even if you’re not thirsty, wear loose light-colored clothing, and avoid sun and strenuous outdoor activity between 11 AM and 4 PM.
Enjoy the summer in the city!
