Beat The Heat: Babylon Preps Beaches And Cooling Centers As Temps Soar

BABYLON, NY — Mother Nature is sending a blast of summer heat across Long Island this week.

While Long Island will fare better than inland areas such as the Hudson Valley and New York City thanks to ocean winds according to the National Weather Service, the Town of Babylon has plans in place to help residents beat the heat as highs will approach 90 degrees.

Town officials told Patch that Cedar, Overlook and Gilgo beaches will be fully open to the public on Wednesday, June 19 for the Juneteenth holiday.

Overlook is accessible for town residents with beach passes only, but weekend and holiday pricing will be in effect for non-residents at Cedar and Gilgo.

Lifeguards will be on duty and a full beach staff is working, town officials said.

Anyone without a beach pass can purchase one at Gilgo Beach on Wednesday, but there's a catch—officials are advising residents to avoid buying a new mobile beach pass on Wednesday if they plan to use it right away since they may not be approved for the same day.

Although all three beaches will be open and free during the hot weather on Thursday and Friday, lifeguards will not be on duty, officials said.

In addition, town beaches, pools and spray parks will be open seven days a week starting on Saturday, June 29.

Anyone who'd like to escape the heat at a cooling center can find one at The Town Hall Annex at 281 Phelps Lane in North Babylon. It will be open "24/7" as a cooling center, officials said. The building is accessible through the Department of Public Safety entrance.

In addition, "some local libraries may be activated as cooling centers" too, but officials advise checking operating hours and calling to make sure the cooling center is open.

Here are some tips to help stay cool in rising temperatures:

• Stay hydrated! Dehydration is the most reported heat-related occurrence in the summer.
• When possible, increase time spent in air-conditioning.
• Wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothing.
• Take a cool bath.
• Check on relatives and friends, especially the elderly.
• Eat light but nutritious food.
• Individuals especially at risk, such as the elderly or those with chronic illness, should refrain from physical activity. They should also avoid being alone, keep their sleeping area well-ventilated and avoid falling asleep in a hot room.
• Be aware of heat-related illnesses, which may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, and low pulse rate.
• If you experience a power outage, call LIPA at 1-800-490-0075.