Cooling Center Open in Hicksville Friday

A cooling center in Hicksville will be open Friday, Aug. 12 to the public in response to the high heat index.

The Hicksville Community Center, located at 28 West Carl St., will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The location is offered by the Town of Oyster Bay. Another cooling center offered by Nassau County at Mitchel Field Administration Center, located at 1 Charles Lindbergh Boulevard in Uniondale, will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

“The combination of heat and humidity can become unbearable and dangerous for many of our residents,” County Executive Edward P. Mangano said in a press release. “I encourage residents to take precautions and visit one of our many cooling centers and pools if they need relief from the heat.”

The Nassau County Department of Health also offers the following information for residents to protect themselves and others during high temperatures:

• Check on relatives and friends, especially the elderly.
• Increase time spent in an air-conditioned environment.
• Drink fluids – especially water. Avoid beverages that contain alcohol.
• Take cool baths.
• Individuals especially at risk, such as the elderly or those with chronic illnesses should refrain from physical activity, avoid being alone, keep their sleeping area well ventilated, and avoid falling asleep in a hot room.
• Eat light, but nutritious foods.
• Avoid the sun at the hottest times of the day.
• Wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothing.

Elderly people, infants, and many individuals with chronic medical conditions are at high risk for heat-related problems and should be very cautious about exposure.

If any person experiences heat stroke or exhaustion, get medical help immediately.

Symptoms of heat-related illnesses may include: headache, dizziness, fatigue, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, and low pulse rate. Other symptoms may include cold pale and clammy skin or hot, flushed dry skin.