Putnam County Libraries Again Offer Cool Spaces to the Public

It’s May! And last year the first blast of summer heat arrived before the end of this month. Will the warm weather repeat itself early again? No one knows for sure, but fortunately for Putnam residents, all the libraries in the county are happy to offer their air-conditioned spaces as a “cooling center,” like they did last year. Stay cool alongside a wide selection of books and a variety of other enjoyable learning experiences at eight locations from east to west. Two of the libraries have generators (with asterisks below) so in the event of a power outage during a heat wave, they would still be able to provide a cool shelter during regular business hours. To double check their hours of operation, calling ahead is best:

• Brewster Public Library, 845-279-6421 (Village of Brewster)
• Julia L. Butterfield Library, 845-265-3040 (Cold Spring)
• Desmond Fish Public Library, 845-424-3020 (Garrison)
• *Kent Public Library, 845-225-8585
• Mahopac Public Library, 845-628-2009
• *Patterson Library, 845-878-6121
• Putnam Valley Library, 845-528-3242
• Reed Memorial Library, 845-225-2439 (Carmel)

If residents remain at home without air conditioning, other important steps include:

• Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing.
• A cool shower or bath can help with temporary relief.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plain water or sports drinks, which can help replace salt and minerals lost during heavy sweating.
• Avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks which can dehydrate you.
• A fan should not be used if the heat index rises above 99˚F.
• Check on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors.

For outside activities, remember this advice:

• Limit time spent outdoors. If you must go out, schedule activities for morning or evening when it is cooler.This is especially true for exercising.
• To reduce risk during outdoor work, take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.Bring drinks to stay hydrated.
• Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even with the windows rolled down.