Oyster Bay Preps Cooling Centers For Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

OYSTER BAY, NY —With hot and humid weather building through the end of the week, Oyster Bay town officials are prepping cooling centers for residents needing to escape the heat and dirty air.

SEE: Baby, It's Hot Outside: 'Unseasonably' Warm Temps Soar Across LI

Long Island will fare better due to ocean winds, the National Weather Service said, with inland areas such as the Hudson Valley and New York City seeing higher temperatures and humidity.

But still, highs will approach 90 degrees across Long Island and the heat index will be close to 95 degrees, according to Dominic Ramunni, meteorologist with the NWS office in Upton.

Two places you can go to cool down will be open from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday:

• Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center – 1001 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage
• Town of Oyster Bay Hicksville Athletic Center – 167 S Broadway, Hicksville

“As temperatures increase, a combination of heat and humidity has the potential to become overwhelming, especially out in the direct sun,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “To help provide our residents with some relief, we have made these cooling centers available for those who may need a location to cool off.”

Saladino and the Town Board also offered 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.
• Avoid the sun at the hottest times of the day.
• 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.
• For energy conservation tips, visit www.lipower.org.