Watch the News Conference Here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsr9NelMNHo
Standing beside Saxon Woods Pool in White Plains, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins joined with members of the Departments of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, Health, Emergency Services and Public Safety to share advice to help residents celebrate the 4th of July and summer season safely.
Jenkins said: “We want you to have fun, but we also want you to be safe. Summer in Westchester County is a time to enjoy the beautiful parks, vibrant communities and exciting events we have to offer. Listen to the professionals when it comes to sun and water safety, also make good choices when it comes to driving and boating. Our goal is for our residents to have a holiday weekend filled with joy, fun and unforgettable moments for all the right reasons.”
Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Conservation Kathy O’Connor said: “We’re excited to welcome residents back to our pools and beaches this summer. Our staff and lifeguards have safety rules set in place to ensure a fun and safe visit for all. Please abide by the rules, be respectful of others and cooperate with lifeguards, our highly trained professionals who there to keep visitors safe in and around the water.”
Commissioner of Health Dr. Sherlita Amler said: “Make sure your whole family drinks plenty of water throughout the day – even more so when it’s hot and humid out – take breaks in the shade and apply and reapply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every two hours. A drowning can happen within seconds, so adults must always be on the lookout for the safety of their children. Whatever the weather, never leave children or pets in a closed car even briefly because the temperature can become dangerous very quickly.”
Commissioner of Emergency Services Susan Spear said: “Commissioner of Emergency Services Susan Spear: “As we celebrate July 4 and enjoy summer outdoor activities, a few simple tips can keep adults, kids, and family pets safe. We urge you to be mindful of fire safety considerations for barbeques, grills, and campfires. But if you do experience an emergency, call 911 for assistance. And if you haven’t already, please teach your kids when and how to dial 911. Those simple steps save lives.”
Commissioner of Public Safety Terrance Raynor said: “Westchester County Police will conduct increased DWI enforcement on the roadways during the holiday weekend to keep motorists safe. In addition, the Department’s Marine Unit will increase its patrols on the Hudson River and Long Island Sound due to an anticipated increase in recreational boating traffic. Dedicated Park Rangers and Police Officers assigned to County parks and pools, as well as Special Operations officers, will patrol throughout all recreational areas.”
Water Safety Tips:
- Watch this Westchester County Video for a refresher on swim safety.
- Read the Westchester County 2025 Pool and Beach schedule.
- When outdoor plans include a pool, beach or lake, it is especially important to designate an adult to watch over children.
- Remain within an arm’s reach of infants and toddlers.
- Floats, inner tubes, water wings and pool noodles are no substitute for adult supervision.
Sun Tips:
- Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 of more, and reapply every two hours after swimming.
- Drink plenty of water and take breaks in the shade to avoid heat exhaustion
- Wear a hat and sunglasses to avoid the midday sun
- Apply repellents to avoid mosquito bites
Cooking Tips:
- For a safe cookout, hotdogs and chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees, ground beef to 160 degrees and pork to 150 degrees.
- Barbecue with an NSF certified thermometer.
- Salads that contain mayonnaise or eggs such as macaroni salad, potato salad and coleslaw should be kept on ice in a cooler until it’s time to eat.