North Hempstead Opens Cooling Centers, Extends Pool, Splash Pad Hours

PORT WASHINGTON, NY — Because of the extended hot weather, North Hempstead town officials have prepared three cooling centers and extended the hours for town pools and spray pads.

The plans go into effect immediately and will extend until Saturday, a town spokesman told Patch, updating an announcement from earlier Tuesday.

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.

Three establishments have cooling centers available for residents,

• “Yes We Can” Community Center (141 Garden Street, Westbury) - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Clinton G. Martin Park (New Hyde Park Road & Marcus Avenue, New Hyde Park) - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Port Washington Adult Activities Center: 80 Manorhaven Blvd., Port Washington – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Two pools will have extended hours:

• Clinton G. Martin Park Pool (New Hyde Park Road & Marcus Avenue, New Hyde Park)

• Manorhaven Beach Park Pool (Manorhaven Boulevard, Port Washington)

Additionally, spray pads will stay on until 9 p.m. at Blumenfeld Park, Fuschillo Park, Mary Jane Davies Green, and Donald Street Park.

Supervisor Jennifer DeSena and the Town Board announced the town’s heat wave plans Tuesday.

“We’re all happy for the summer season, but it often comes with temperatures that can be dangerous," DeSena said. “You can always beat the heat by visiting one of our local cooling stations or hopping into one of our town pools, but I implore every North Hempstead resident to check in on vulnerable neighbors, especially our seniors.”

Town officials offered tips to help you stay cool and comfortable:

• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Wear clothing that is light-colored, lightweight, loose and absorbent. Cotton is a good choice.
• Eat fruits and vegetables to replace nutrients.
• Wear a wide brimmed hat when going outdoors.
• Take cool baths and shower once or twice a day.
• Limit caffeine and alcoholic drinks.
• Check the daily heat index in the newspaper to alert you to risk of heat related illness.
• Do not leave dogs in cars, as temperatures rapidly rise to over 100 degrees in a matter of minutes.

With the air quality deteriorating, individuals especially at risk, such as the elderly, babies or those with chronic illness, should refrain from physical activity. They should also 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.