Heat advisory and air quality alerts were in effect across the Hudson Valley Thursday triple-digit feels-like temps.

Health officials urged people to avoid strenuous activity, especially during the hottest part of the day. They say if you want to exercise outdoors, do it early in the morning or in the late afternoon or early evening.

It is extremely important to stay hydrated with lots of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine.

And take breaks in an air-conditioned place to cool off to prevent heat-related illness like heat stroke, dehydration and heat exhaustion. It can sneak up on you so listen to your body. If you feel lightheaded, nauseous, confused, have trouble breathing, it means it's time to take a break and try to cool down.

If you don't have air conditioning and your home becomes unbearable, there are plenty of places you can go - hit the beaches, waterfront, pools, the mall, the movies, or your local library.

There are also cooling centers set up in many communities and officials say just give your local police department a call and they can tell you where to find one in your area.