Cooling Centers

Westchester County

To help residents cope with the soaring temperatures, The Westchester County Health Department offers a 24-hour *stay cool* information line, (914) 813-5620 which provides tips on how to stay cool in the heat and identifies cooling centers 

If no convenient referrals are available, give callers following suggestions:
  • Local Libraries, Movie theatres, museums (may need to pay admission), Malls
Seniors who need transportation to cooling center
  • Refer to their county or local Office for the Aging. Office for aging may try to arrange transportation.
Tips on how to stay cool
·         Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing; drink lots of water and avoid hot foods, heavy meals and alcohol.
·         Physical activity generates body heat, so slow down and take it easy as the temperature rises
·         To avoid heat stress, try to spend as much time as you can in pleasant surroundings - a cool room in your home, an air-conditioned mall, a senior citizen center, the public library or a movie theater.
·         Fans can also provide good indoor circulation, and cool baths or showers offer excellent relief from the heat.
 
Tips for Pet/Animal Safety in Heat Emergency:
·         Take pet to vet for summer check-up, check for parasites.
·         Never leave pet alone in vehicle, even with windows open.
·         Always carry a gallon of fresh water for pet when traveling.
·         Limit outdoor playtime to early morning, or evening.
·         Do not take pet out to play right after meal or in humid weather.
·         Don't let pet stand on hot asphalt. Keep walks to a minimum.
·         Wash salt off dogs after swimming in ocean.
·         Bring pets indoors to cool place during heat of the day.
·         Don't apply sunscreen or insect repellents unless labeled for animals.
·         Don't leave unscreened windows open that pets could jump or fall through.
·         Don't shave fur down to skin. Leave one inch for sun protection.
·         Keep dogs with heart or lung disease, or old or overweight dogs, inside.
·         Keep some breeds indoors, check with your veterinarian.
·         Keep matches, lighter fluid, citronella candles, insect coils out of reach.