Cooling Centers in Staten Island

July 07, 2023   364

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Cooling Centers in Staten Island

During the sweltering heat of summer, city-dwellers, particularly those without air conditioning at home, are often left to grapple with intense heatwaves. In such times, cooling centers serve as a critical resource. Especially in Staten Island, where temperatures can reach high levels, understanding these centers' role and location is essential.

Understanding the Role of Cooling Centers

The Significance of Cooling Centers

Cooling centers are free public facilities that provide residents with a place to cool off during heatwaves. These centers are crucial in preventing heat-related illnesses, which can be a significant health risk, especially for older adults, children, and those with underlying health conditions.

Staten Islanders can find cooling centers at the following locations:

• St. Joseph St. Thomas, 50 Maguire Ave., 10309 -- Sunday, closed; Monday 12-8p.m.; Tuesday-Wednesday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thursday, closed; Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, closed. Wheelchair accessible
• Tottenville High School, 100 Luten Ave., 10312 -- Sunday, closed; Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, closed. Wheelchair accessible
• Huguenot Park Library, 830 Huguenot Ave., 10312 -- Sunday, closed; Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wheelchair accessible
• Great Kills Library, 56 Giffords Ln., 10308 -- Sunday, closed; Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wheelchair accessible
• Richmondtown Library, 200 Clarke Ave., 10306 -- Sunday, closed; Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wheelchair accessible
• New Dorp Library, 309 New Dorp Ln., 10306 -- Sunday, closed; Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wheelchair accessible
• Northwell SIUH, 280 Marsh Ave., 10314 -- Sunday-Monday Thursday – Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday-Wednesday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wheelchair accessible
• Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex, 625 Father Capodanno Blvd., 10305 -- Sunday, Friday, Saturday 6:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; Monday-Thursday 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wheelchair accessible
• Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library, 2550 Victory Blvd., 10314 -- Sunday, closed; Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wheelchair accessible
• Stapleton Neighborhood Senior Center (Seniors only), 189 Gordon St., 10304 -- Sunday, closed; Monday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday-Wednesday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thursday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, closed. Hours may be extended during a heat emergency
• Stapleton Library, 132 Canal St., 10304 -- Sunday, closed; Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wheelchair accessible
• Anderson Neighborhood Senior Center (Seniors only), 120 Anderson Ave., 10302 -- Sunday, closed; Monday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Tuesday-Wednesday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Thursday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday, closed. Program located in the basement; wheelchair accessible; hours may be extended during a heat emergency
• St. George Library, 5 Central Ave., 10301 -- Sunday, closed; Monday-Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wheelchair accessible

 

Cooling Centers and Health Risks Prevention

During heatwaves, cooling centers can literally be a lifesaver. They offer a safe, air-conditioned space for people who don't have access to such facilities at home. By doing so, they help to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and more severe conditions like heatstroke.

Where to Find Cooling Centers on Staten Island

Cooling Centers in Public Facilities

In Staten Island, cooling centers are often located in public facilities such as libraries and senior centers. They open their doors to residents when temperatures reach dangerous levels.

Cooling Center Locations and Accessibility

There are several cooling centers scattered across Staten Island. You can find these centers at St. Joseph St. Thomas, Tottenville High School, Huguenot Park Library, Great Kills Library, Richmondtown Library, New Dorp Library, Northwell SIUH, Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex, Todt Hill-Westerleigh Library, and the Stapleton Neighborhood Senior Center (seniors only). All of these locations are wheelchair accessible, ensuring they are available to as many residents as possible.

What to Expect at a Staten Island Cooling Center

Accessibility and Comfort

These centers are designed to provide comfortable, air-conditioned spaces where residents can find relief from the heat. You can expect them to be equipped with seating, often tables, and possibly access to drinking water.

Staying Safe During Your Visit

Remember that these centers are shared public spaces. It's important to consider others' comfort and safety. Practice good hygiene, respect social distancing measures if in place, and follow any other guidelines set by the center.

Alternative Cooling Centers in Staten Island

Additional Resources

While the locations mentioned above serve as official cooling centers, there might be other resources available in Staten Island. The New York Public Library, for instance, serves as a cooling center and provides relief for those experiencing physical discomfort in a heatwave.

Pet-Friendly Cooling Centers

While not all cooling centers are pet-friendly, it's worth checking if certain facilities will accommodate your furry friends. You can use the city's Cooling Center Finder to locate such centers.

The Importance of Cooling Center Etiquette

Using Cooling Centers Responsibly

While visiting these centers, remember to be mindful of others. Avoid unnecessary noise, keep your area clean, and remember that others are also trying to find relief from the heat.

Prioritizing Community Health

In the end, cooling centers serve an essential role in maintaining the health of the community during extreme heat. They are an important resource for those without air conditioning at home or who need a respite from the heat.

Conclusion

Cooling centers are vital public health resources, especially during the sweltering summer months. Knowing where to find these facilities in Staten Island and understanding what to expect can help ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe and cool during a heatwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a cooling center? A cooling center is a free public facility where people can stay cool during a heatwave.
• Where can I find a cooling center in Staten Island? Cooling centers can be found in various locations, including public libraries, senior centers, and some schools.
• Are pets allowed in cooling centers? Not all cooling centers are pet-friendly. Check with the specific facility or use the city's Cooling Center Finder to find pet-friendly locations.
• What should I bring to a cooling center? You may want to bring water, snacks, a book or other entertainment, and any essential medication you may need.
• Are all cooling centers wheelchair accessible? The cooling centers listed in this article are all wheelchair accessible. However, it's always a good idea to check with the specific facility for details about accessibility.