This week, we asked readers if in their opinion, the City of New York adequately prepares residents for heatwaves.

 

“No, I don’t think they do because you still see the people opening the (fire hydrant) pumps to stay cool from this heat. I don’t see them doing much on that. The subways don’t even have bathrooms for you to go in the subway. They’re not going to put anything in to cool the subways, unless you’re on the train. What do I do to beat the heat? All I can do is just go in the shade.”

Harry Laguna,

Norwood

“As a New York City citizen for my entire life, I believe the trains are air conditioned, but they are too cold! I also think they’re not doing as much as they could be doing like providing more AC units in NYCHA buildings. I feel like they put a lot of the money into the wrong things. Typically, low-income households can’t purchase ACs. It would be nice if they came with the apartment.”

Alison Puentes,

Kingsbridge

“I feel like there should be mandatory checkpoints. Like, maybe little water spots or something, cooling stations. It’s getting really hot, and I’m seeing a lot of people out here without homes and stuff in this type of weather, whether it be hot or cold. But specifically, right now with the heat, it’s not good to be out here unprepared. I stay hydrated and drink my smoothies and stay as cool as possible.”

Elrick Smith,

Van Cortlandt Village

 

“I believe the people need more cooling centers because to be at home, you have to pay your electricity bill; it’s high. Cooling centers, I believe, people need [them]. They need to help us, the people, who work and pay taxes. Out of everyone, we need help. They need to lower rents. I stay home with my fan, but I need a cooling center we can walk over to.”

Agnelli Aldano,

Jerome Park

 

“I think the City does as much as they can. You can always do more, but they do as much as they can, given the financial restraints. This is going to be a long, hot summer. Cool thoughts are where it all starts. Mental words tell you how you’re going to deal with the condition. Stay cool.”

Jay Stone,

Van Cortlandt Park West

 

Editor’s Note: For tips on how to beat the heat,  including discounts available from the City of New York for the installation of air conditioning units, read our recent story here.