West NY News

Chautauqua County is experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures much higher than average and high humidity levels. The Chautauqua County Health Department has urged residents to take precautions and seek cooling centers if necessary.

"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 are 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, older individuals, those with complex medical needs, as well as people who work outdoors are at greatest risk."

The Health Department provided several recommendations for staying cool:

- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

- Stay indoors in air-conditioned places as much as possible.

- Use fans in combination with cool mist or damp cloths.

- Limit outdoor activities to cooler parts of the day such as morning or evening hours.

- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.

Residents were also reminded not to leave children or pets in cars due to rapidly rising temperatures inside vehicles.

The following cooling centers are available across Chautauqua County:

1. Ahira Hall Memorial Library: 37 W Main St, Brocton

2. Alexander Free Library: 2883 N Rd, Sherman

3. Ashville Free Library: 2200 N Maple Ave, Ashville

4. Chautauqua Opportunities Inc.: 10825 Bennett Rd, Dunkirk

5. Chautauqua Opportunities Inc.: 402 Chandler St, Jamestown

6. Chautauqua Mall: 318 Fairmount Ave, Lakewood

7. Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services: Various locations (Note some closures on June 19th)

8. Ellington-Farman Free Library: 760 Thornton Rd, Ellington

9. Hazeltine Public Library: 891 Busti-Sugar Grove Rd, Jamestown

10. James Prendergast Library Assoc.: 509 Cherry St., Jamestown

The department emphasized that recognizing symptoms such as heavy sweating, fainting, vomiting (heat exhaustion), muscle cramps (heat cramps), skin irritation (heat rash), or hot dry skin and rapid pulse (heat stroke) is crucial for timely intervention.

Residents were advised to check local news for extreme heat alerts and learn more about managing heat-related illnesses through resources like the National Weather Service's Heat Risk Tool and CDC guidelines.

For further information about health services offered by the Chautauqua County Health Department visit www.HealthCHQ.com.