A prolonged period of heat and humidity will affect our area beginning Tuesday, June 18th, through Friday, June 21st with a heat index close to 100 degrees. Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related fatalities in the United States.
“Extended high temperatures like this can be dangerous for anyone but they are especially dangerous for children and older adults”, shared Schuyler County Emergency Management Office Director Kirk Smith. “Be sure to check on your family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning or other ways to cool down. Especially if they spend much of their time alone.”
“Heat stroke can be very dangerous and even deadly,” cautioned Schuyler County Public Health Director Jill Kasprzyk. “If someone is experiencing symptoms of heat stroke – including confusion, loss of consciousness, or has a very high body temperature – call 911 and try to take steps to cool the person down.”
Schuyler County Public Health is urging residents to prepare for this period of prolonged heat by taking the following precautions:
- Know the symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
- Make sure that you can open your windows and/or that your air conditioner is working properly.
- Check on your neighbors.
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about medications that might make you sensitive to the sun or heat.
If you don't have air conditioning, consider heading to one of the locations listed below to help you cool down. These locations may be closed at certain times or only available during extreme heat events. These locations include:
- Dutton S. Peterson Memorial Library, 106 First St., Odessa, 607-594-2791
- EB Pert Memorial Library, 5736 St. Rte. 414, Hector, 607-546-2605
- Montour Falls Memorial Library, 406 W. Main St., Montour Falls, 607-535-7489
- Silver Spoon Café, 323 Owego St., Montour Falls, 607-535-7108
- Watkins Glen Public Library, 610 S. Decatur St., Watkins Glen, 607-535-2346
- Shopping Centers
If you live in Schuyler County and need help finding a place to cool down, call NY Connects during office hours at 607-535-7108 or the Sheriff’s Office after hours at 607-535-8222.