Extreme Heat Advice

Graphic to know signs check weather and stay in air conditioning to prevent heat-related illness

Extreme heat is one of the most dangerous weather conditions.

Extreme heat is deadly. New Yorkers' bodies are not used to long periods of extreme heat, and this increases our risk. Health risks include dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and worsening of health conditions. Everyone is at risk for heat-related illness, but older adults, children, people who work outdoors, and people with existing health conditions are at more risk of getting sick when it's hot. Learn about Extreme Heat and Health in New York State and how summertime temperatures impact New Yorkers.

Featured Hot Weather Resources

Keep kids out of hot cars!

More than half of children who died in a hot vehicle were forgotten by a parent or caregiver. In just 10 minutes, a car can heat up and become deadly.

Learn more at Keep Kids Out of Hot Cars!.

Cool off in air conditioned spaces for a few hours a day to reduce your risk of heat-related illness.

If you don't have an air conditioner, visit a cooling center.

Cooling centers are air-conditioned places to cool down during extreme heat. Recreational areas, including spray parks and community pools, are also great places to cool off. Find a cooling center near you.

Eligible households can get a Cooling Assistance benefit to buy and install an air conditioner while supplies last.

Check to see if applications are open and learn more using this English and Spanish flyer.

Prepare for the heat.

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks.
  • Take regular breaks when working or playing outdoors and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day (between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.).
  • Plan ahead for heat waves or when indoor temperatures pose a risk of heat-related illness, especially if you are an older adult or family caregiver.
  • Make sure that you can open your windows and/or that your air conditioner is working properly.
  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about medications that might make you sensitive to the sun or heat.

Learn more at Keep Your Cool During Summer Heat

Know the symptoms of heat-related illness.

Illness Symptoms What to Do
Heat stroke (sun stroke)
THIS IS AN EMERGENCY - ACT FAST!
  • Hot, dry, red skin
  • Rapid pulse
  • High body temperature ≥ 105°
  • Loss of alertness
  • Confusion
  • Unconsciousness or coma
  • Rapid and shallow breathing
  • Call 911 immediately.
  • Cool the person quickly.
  • Bring to a cool place and use a cool bath or sponges, fans and AC.
    OR
  • Wrap ice packs in cloth and place on neck, wrists, ankles and armpits.
    OR
  • Remove clothing and wrap the person in cool, wet sheets.
Heat exhaustion
  • Heavy sweating
  • Fainting
  • Vomiting
  • Cold, pale, clammy skin
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Weakness
  • Heat exhaustion can quickly lead to heat stroke so if symptoms worsen or don't improve get medical help.
  • Move the person to a cool place.
  • Loosen clothes and apply cool, wet cloths to the neck, face and arms.
  • Have the person sip water slowly. Provide half a glass of water every 15 minutes up to about 1 quart. Stop giving water if vomiting occurs.
Heat cramps
  • Muscle cramps in the abdominal area or extremities
  • Heavy sweating
  • Mild nausea
  • Move the person to a cool place.
  • Apply firm pressure to the cramping muscle.
  • Gently stretch the cramped muscle and hold it for 20 seconds followed by gentle massage.
  • Have the person drink some cool water.
Heat rash
  • Skin irritation that looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters
  • Move the person to a cool place.
  • Keep the affected area dry.
  • Have the person use talcum powder to increase comfort.

Learn more.

  • Climate Change and Extreme Weather: A Guide for Summer Camp Operators: A changing climate affects children and staff health and safety. This guide explains climate threats and provides tips and resources to help summer camps prepare and adapt activities during weather emergencies.
  • Heat Index Procedures. The New York State Public High School Athletics Association has adopted extreme heat procedures for NYS public high school athletics departments.
  • Heat and Athletes. This CDC website describes how people who exercise in extreme heat are more likely to become dehydrated and get heat-related illness. It also provides tips for exercising when it's hot outside.
  • New York State Employer Guidance: Protecting Workers from Extreme Heat. New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) guidance and best practices for employers to protect outdoor workers in extreme temperatures, poor air quality, and extreme weather.
  • Protecting Workers from Heat Illness. Workers may be required to work in hot environments for long periods. This infosheet describes measures employers should take to prevent heat-related illnesses.
  • Heat Illness Prevention. The OSHA Heat Illness Prevention campaign educates employers and workers on the dangers of working in the heat.
  • Acclimatizing Workers. When the heat index is high, special precautions are needed to protect un-acclimatized workers while they adjust, particularly on the first few days of the job.