By: Amanda Moses
So far this summer, New Yorkers have been lucky enough to enjoy warm weather and not the usual scorching heatwaves that tends to hit our city. However, the cruel summer heat is slowly reaching a boiling point and temperatures are starting to rise. The temperature combined with the humidity will make it difficult for those who have chronic health issues and those who work outside.
The New York City Office of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) urges city dwellers to take precautions against the heatwave, especially individuals who are vulnerable to heat illness, such as seniors and those with chronic health problems. Spending too much time in the sun or exposure to the heat can cause heat illness, which occurs when the body can’t cool itself off. Vulnerable individuals are more susceptible because their bodies do not easily adjust to changes in temperature.
There are two serious forms of heat illness: exhaustion and stroke. Heatstroke occurs when the body’s temperature rises and cannot cool down. A person’s temperature can rise so quickly damaging the heart, brain, kidneys and muscles. Without emergency treatment it can even result in death. If someone you know is experiencing a heatstroke, immediately notify 911 and take that person to a shady area and apply cool water to their skin while fanning them to promote sweating. If they are conscious, provide them with cold water or any type of beverage that does not contain caffeine or alcohol.
Heat exhaustion is slightly different than a heatstroke and occurs when your body overheats and is dehydrated due to an excessive loss of water and salt; it is not as severe as a heatstroke, but it can cause vomiting, dizziness and confusion. A person can treat heat exhaustion by lowering their temperature, which can be achieved by entering a cool environment, fanning themselves or pouring cold water on their body, and rehydrating themselves with water. Untreated heat exhaustion can turn into heatstroke.
Symptoms of heat illness can occur slowly and many are unaware that they are in danger of it. The DOHMH advises everyone to:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity
- Drink plenty of water on hot days, even if you are not thirsty
- Stay in the shade and out of direct sun
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothes
- Use a hat to protect your face and head
- Wear sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15
- Limit outdoor activities to early morning and late evening hours
- Avoid drinks with alcohol, caffeine, or lots of sugar
Spring Creek Towers (SCT) residents can relieve themselves of the heat effects at their local cooling center, which is the Brooklyn Sports Cub (BSC) that is located at 1540 Van Siclen Avenue. For more information about Cooling Centers or Heat Illness visit the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene at http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/environmental/heat-illness2.shtml
