As we move into warmer months, trying to stay cool can be difficult.
Centers For Disease Control and Prevention data shows there are more occurrences of heat stroke, dehydration and dizziness.
“We try to set coolers out to the side, especially with us being by the bike trail. We try preventing the heat exhaustion, giving people a place for shelter to stay out of the warm. We have misting fans that also help,” said Jacob Hazlatt, deputy chief and public relations coordinator of Mohawk Valley Ambulance Corps.
Hazlatt said planning ahead of extreme heat is crucial.
“Make sure to stay hydrated. Getting the cool areas, when possible. Don’t spend much time outside on these hot days,” said Hazlatt.
“I leave my home early in the morning so I can get here before it’s really too hot. But I know that I can stay here and be nice and cool,” said Dona Ross who goes to her local senior citizen center frequently throughout the week.
She says using the cooling center takes some of the burden off having to cool her own home.
“We have friends here that we can be with. So it’s really a nice place to be,” said Ross.
And although HEAP cooling assistance funds have run out, there are other cooling resources available.
“One program that we are working with is the Essential Plan Cooling Programs, that’s a program through the New York state Department of Health,” said Mike Romano, deputy commissioner for Oneida County Family and Community Services.
Officials say they want New Yorkers to come to them for help.
“So please contact social services and we can walk them through the application process for that as well,” aid Mary Ellen Chainey, director of income maintenance for Oneida County Family and Community Services.
And with more hight temperature days as we close out the week, make sure to visit your county’s website to find your nearest cooling center.