Heat Watch issued for this weekend, here’s how to beat the heat

With temperatures set to exceed 100 degrees this weekend, New Yorkers are being encouraged to protect themselves, and others, from heat-related emergencies.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 12. An excessive Heat Watch will then take effect through 10:00 p.m. Sunday, August 13. Heat index values for both days are forecasted for about 105 degrees.

“The extreme heat our city will experience in the coming days is dangerous, and can be fatal, especially for vulnerable populations like seniors and people with chronic medical conditions,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “I encourage every New Yorker to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves during this extended period of intense heat. We are reminding all New Yorkers to use air conditioning or get to a cooling center, drink lots of water, and check in on your family, friends, and neighbors.”

Beat the heat this weekend with these cool tips:

• Stay out of the sun and avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Drink fluids, particularly water, even if you do not feel thirsty. Your body needs water to keep cool. Those on fluid-restricted diets or taking diuretics should first consult their physician.
• Water is the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies. Avoid beverages containing alcohol and/or caffeine.
• Eat small, frequent meals.
• Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.
• If possible, go to an air-conditioned building for several hours during the hottest parts of the day.
• Cool down with a cool bath or shower.
• Participate in activities that will keep you cool, such as going to the movies, shopping at a mall, or swimming at a pool or beach.
• Cover all exposed skin with an SPF sunscreen (15 or above) and wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and head.
• Never leave your children or pets in the car.

Additionally, New York City cooling centers will remain open Friday through Sunday, and will operate with extended hours. Cooling centers are air conditioned facilities, such as libraries, community centers, senior centers and NYCHA facilities that are open to the public during heat emergencies. To find the nearest cooling center – including accessible facilities – call 311 (TTY: 212-504-4115) or visit NYC Emergency Management’s Cooling Center Finder atwww.nyc.gov/beattheheat.