Extreme heat is something common for New York City during the summer months. Generally, extreme heat is defined by temperatures that are 10 degrees or higher above average temperature. On warm summer days the city can be up to 10 degrees warmer than the surrounding area. The city's infrastructure - mostly made of asphalt, concrete and metal - traps the heat. This is known as the "urban heat island" effect. The perceived temperature in New York is often higher due to the fact that it is very humid.

• If you are walking through the city in the heat, often go to one of the many shops or hotel lobbies, they are all air-conditioned, to cool down a little. Attention: The temperature difference is huge and you could catch a cold. Bring a light vest in your bag.

• Wear light, light-colored clothing. Light colors reflect some of the sun's energy.

• Drink fluids - especially water. On almost every corner there is a food stand or drugstore where you can buy water.

• Avoid alcohol and/or caffeine.

• The supermarkets already have pre-cut fruit, which is a good meal replacement on hot days.

• New York City may open cold storage facilities across the five boroughs if temperatures reach dangerous levels. If you want to know where cooling centers are, call 311 or go to nyc.gov/oem to find the closest center.

• Cooling off in one of the public swimming pools or a trip to the beach, Coney Island or Far Rockaway, for example, can be easily and cheaply reached by ferry and subway. There's a big fountain in Washington Square Park, just for the cool kids.

• Sunscreen SPF (15 or higher) even if it's cloudy - consider the UV rays; Also wear a hat or cap that protects your face and head, since you're in NYC, Yankees hats look great.

• If you are not in your room/apartment, turn off the air conditioning - GO GREEN