As a heat wave sweeps over New York City and much of the rest of the country, we’d be remiss if we didn’t pass on a recommendation from New York City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
First of all, it’s important to remember that those at increased risk for hospitalization and death from heat stroke include adults ages 65 and older, as well as patients with cardiovascular disease, psychiatric illness (often involving substance abuse), diabetes, or respiratory illness. Poorer neighborhoods also see a higher rate of heat-related illness and death.
To avoid heat stroke and other dangerous complications, air-conditioning is essential for anyone at increased risk. If air-conditioning is not available in your home, it’s possible to find relief in one the cooling centers provided by many large cities. To find a cooling center in New York, call 311 or go to www.nyc/gov/oem.
And, of course, it’s always a good idea to stay hydrated and wear loose clothing as the temperature rises.