Central Harlem residents use a hydrant to cool off in July 2011. See below for how to turn your neighborhood hydrant into a cooling station (Photo courtesy of Victor Pillet, Flickr Creative Commons)
UPDATED JULY 19: Review our collection of reports, news coverage, toolkits and datasets for a closer look at how extreme heat affects Harlem.
Guide to Cooling Resources in New York City (NYC Emergency Management)
You’ll find information on nearby cooling centers and where to register for weather updates, as well as a rich resource guide on extreme heat and your health. You can also find more information on how the heat specifically can affect your heart, and why it’s so important to cool down.
You can also find information on how to apply for subsidized air conditioners, funded by the NYS Home Energy Assistance Program. Eligible households can apply for cooling assistance through contacts listed on this site.
Heatwave Deaths in NYC (National Weather Service)
The NWS studies heat-related deaths in New York City to create a basic profile of the community most at risk (PDF).
Who is Most Vulnerable to Heatwave Deaths (Environmental Health Perspectives)
This study found that heatwave mortality rates are higher in New York City’s black (non-Hispanic) and low-income neighborhoods.
Poverty and Heatwave Deaths in New York City (Health and Place)
This study on heat-associated mortality found death rates are associated with poverty and poor housing quality, and that awareness and cooling systems can reduce heat-health vulnerability.
Heat-related Deaths Projected To Increase in Major Cities (White House)
This extensive report from the federal government’s GlobalChange.gov examines heat and mortality. It found that by the end of this century, tens of thousands of people will be dying from heat-related illnesses every year – and that the most vulnerable areas are major cities like New York.
Need to Know Terms (New York State Homeland Security)
Here is a guide to decoding the weather forecast and other research on extreme heat. It also includes information on safety precautions, energy conservation, and potential health hazards.
Climate Action Plan (WE ACT)
Find out how heat affects Harlem health, infrastructure, and emergency services in this climate resilience report from WE ACT, a community-based organization that advocates for environmental justice (PDF).
Safeguarding Your Home: Low-Income Assistance (Office of Community Services)
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) assists families with energy costs by providing federally funded assistance for home energy bills, energy crises, and relevant home repairs.
Get a Free Spray Cap (FDNY)
Make your fire hydrant a cooling station. New York City (18+) residents can apply for spray caps to be fitted onto a nearby hydrant. You’ll need to fill out a form at your local fire station, then they’ll come by and install it for the day.
However, don’t try to open a fire hydrant yourself – that can be dangerous if not handled properly. Make sure to contact your local fire station first.
How to Reduce Energy Use in Northern Manhattan (City College)
City College of New York researchers examine possible ways to reduce electricity use that causes urban surface temperatures to rise.