Goshen – County Executive Edward A. Diana and Commissioner of Health Dr. Eli N. Avila advise residents today to take precautions this week as the National Weather Service (NWS) in Upton, NY has placed Orange County in an Heat Advisory as the Heat Index Values will be approximately 100 degrees today, with more heat and humidity forecast for the week.
“I urge residents to stay cool and safe in an air conditioned environment, which may be at home, a neighbor’s house, the library, or a shopping mall,” said County Executive Diana. “I also ask that citizens please take some extra time to check on elderly and special needs relatives, friends and neighbors during this week.”
Orange County Commissioner of Health Eli Avila MD, suggests Orange County residents take the following precautions at this time.
- Drink more fluids. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. It is also a good idea to wear a wide-brimmed hat or use an umbrella and use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.
- Eat small meals and eat more often. Do not eat a lot of food high in protein, which increases metabolic heat.
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Slow down. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.
- Stay indoors. When temperatures are extreme, stay indoors, ideally in an air-conditioned place.
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Get out of the car. Never leave a person or an animal in a parked vehicle
“Residents should reduce their energy consumption as much as possible, while preparing a family plan in case of potential power outages,” said Seamus K. Leary, Deputy Commissioner Orange County Emergency Management.
The Orange County Division of Emergency Management is monitoring the situation and is in communication with our utility partners.