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Coping With The Heat

With temperatures near or above 90 expected for much of the week, steps are being taken to make sure New York State residents can get some relief.

But there also are words of caution from the experts and those involved in helping provide the power needed to keep the air conditioners running.

The New York Independent System Operator, which oversees power distribution in the state, is predicting the demand for electricity in New York could be near record levels with several days of high heat expected. The organization  is activating its demand response program downstate to reduce usage.

It's also calling on New Yorkers to conserve electricity and follow the conservation advice of their local utility.

This kind of heat can lead to health problems -- even life threatening problems.

Officials with the American Red Cross Western Finger Lakes Region issued some tips including one thing they say is probably  the most important thing to do, and that is to drink plenty of water, avoiding drinks with caffeine and alcohol.

Also wear loose-fitting light colored clothing, and if you have access to air-conditioning, stay there as often as you can.

Officials in Monroe County have announced extended swimming hours at Ontario Beach Park, through Thursday.

County Executive Maggie Brooks says lifeguards will remain on duty through 8pm each night, as long as the conditions and water quality are favorable.

The City of Rochester  has also declared a Cool Sweep Heat Emergency in effect Tuesday and Wednesday.

There will extended hours at city pools and Durand Eastman Beach, as well as places where spray parks will be set up, and an opportunity for people without air conditioning to go to certain city libraries to cool off.

Randy Gorbman is WXXI's director of news and public affairs. Randy manages the day-to-day operations of WXXI News on radio, television, and online.