WNY News Now

(WNY News Now) – MAYVILLE, N.Y. – As temperatures in Chautauqua County soar to unprecedented highs, officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from the dangerous heat.

Over the next few days, Chautauqua County will experience extreme heat, with temperatures significantly higher than average, accompanied by high humidity levels. The Chautauqua County Health Department emphasizes the preventability of heat-related illnesses and fatalities, which claim over 1,200 lives annually in the United States.

“In the coming days we will see the highest temperatures so far this year here in Chautauqua County,” said Chautauqua  County Executive PJ Wendel, Jr. “Please be aware of the impact this heat and humidity can have on you, your loved  ones and your pets.”  

“Extreme heat is one of the most potentially dangerous weather conditions. Multiple days of extreme heat is much  harder on the body than just one day,” stated Michael Faulk M.D., Chautauqua County’s Chief Medical Officer. “New  Yorkers’ bodies are not accustomed to long periods of extreme heat which could trigger a heat related illness. These  illnesses are on a spectrum and may range from heat cramps, to heat exhaustion, up to heat stroke; which is a true  medical emergency. It is critically important to stay cool and hydrated; know the symptoms of heat-related illnesses. Infants and older individuals and those with complex medical needs, as well as people who work outdoors are at  greatest risk.” 

Residents are advised to stay cool, stay hydrated, and remain vigilant for symptoms of heat-related illnesses. Infants, older individuals, those with complex medical needs, and outdoor workers are at the greatest risk. The Health Department recommends seeking out cooling centers if needed and provides guidelines to prevent heat-related health issues:

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you.
2. Stay Cool: Use air conditioning or visit public places with A/C, such as malls or libraries. If you don’t have air conditioning at home, consider spending time in a cooling center.
3. Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
4. Wear Light Clothing: Dress in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and use hats or umbrellas for shade.
5. Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Regularly check on infants, elderly neighbors, and people with health conditions to ensure they are safe and comfortable.
6. Know the Symptoms: Recognize signs of heat-related illnesses, including heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms escalate to heat stroke, characterized by a high body temperature, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
7.  Wear sunscreen. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated. If you must  go outdoors, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and by putting on  sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes prior to going out. Continue to reapply it according to the package  directions.  
8. Do not leave children or pets in cars. Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with a  window cracked open. While anyone left in a parked car is at risk, children are especially at risk of getting a  heat stroke or dying.  
   
9. As Chautauqua County faces this extreme weather, staying informed and taking proactive measures can save lives.

Chautauqua County Cooling Centers:

Joy Fellowship Free Methodist
Church

515 E 7th Street, Jamestown,
NY 14701

716-484-1542 Mon, Wed, Fri: 10:00AM-2:00PM

Lakewood Memorial Library 12 W Summit Street,
Lakewood, NY 14750

716-763-6234 Mon: 10:00AM-6:00PM; Tues: 10:00AM-
8:00PM; Wed: 10:00AM-6:00PM; Thurs:

10:00AM-8:00PM; Fri: 10:00AM-6:00PM; Sat:
10:00AM-2:00PM

Myers Memorial Library 6 Falconer Street, Frewsburg,

NY 14738

716-569-5515 Mon-Fri: 10:00AM-1:00PM, 3:00PM – 6:00PM;

Sat: 10:00AM-1:00PM

Sinclairville Free Library 15 Main St, Sinclairville,

NY 14782

716-962-5885 Mon, Thurs: 2:00PM-7:00PM; Wed: 9:00AM-5:00PM;
Fri: 10:00AM- 4:00PM; Sat: 10:00AM-1:00PM.

 National Weather Service heat risk tool: https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/heatrisk/ 

• New York State Department of Health:  

https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/emergency/weather/hot

• CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/extreme-heat/about/index.html. 

About Chautauqua County Health Department – The Chautauqua County Health Department is the leading Public Health  organization in Chautauqua County dedicated to the support of the community’s health. The Health Department takes  innovative approaches to provide technical assistance to partner organizations, and offers various programs and services in  order to help prevent disease, protect the public’s health and promote our community’s overall health and wellness. For more information visit http://www.HealthyCHQ.com.