Follow ‘Keep Cool’ Tips During Hot Summer Days

Based on predictions of high temperatures and high humidity creating conditions that can be particularly dangerous for seniors, the city Department for the Aging (DFTA) has issued a "stay cool" advisory for the elderly population in New York City.

DFTA Commissioner Edwin Mendez–Santiago declared, "it’s important that seniors stay cool and observe medical recommendations on how to avoid heat stress.

I also want to remind New Yorkers to check on elderly relatives, friends and neighbors to make sure that they are coping successfully with the heat, are following medical recommendations and know about public cooling centers."

He said hot weather can cause the body to sweat too much or not enough, leading to heat stress. Symptoms include nausea, dizziness, weakness, muscle cramps, pale and clammy skin, disorientation or headache.

"If you begin to experience these symptoms, call your doctor or ‘911’ immediately," Mendez–Santiago urged.

Heed the following recommendations:

•Avoid the sun, exertion and strenuous activity.

•Drink plenty of water or diluted fruit juices; avoid caffeine and alcoholic beverages.

•Keep the room well ventilated by using a fan or [an] air conditioner, or open windows; draw the blinds to block out the sun.

•Avoid midday heat.

•Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes and wear sunscreen and a hat outdoors.

•Rest in an air-conditioned area. The city has established cooling centers, public areas where seniors can stay cool during the day. During a declared heat emergency, call 311 to find out where the closest cooling center is located.