Hot times

By MICHAEL A. RUKAVINA OBSERVER Staff Writer

OBSERVER Photo by Justin GoetzLifeguards Jamie Walker and Kristen Zolnoske keep an eye on swimmers at Wright Park Beach in Dunkirk. The recent heat wave has sent many to the beach seeking relief.

7/18/2006 - As you do your daily routine you may be noticing that you can’t rest your arm out your car window the way you want to without getting burned or you may find yourself rummaging through those bins of clothing that you only wear three months out of the year.Whatever the sign may be, it’s official that summer is here.Western New York residents have been through their fair share of never-ending winters followed by mediocre summers, but this year like last year is starting out to be another good one. After a beautiful weekend and more of the same 80-plus temperatures to follow, it’s safe to say the summer in Chautauqua County has begun and people better start preparing. To combat the heat, local residents have found solitude in area beaches that are currently open to the public. Main Street Beach in Dunkirk water has been tested and has been listed as satisfactory according to the Chautauqua County Beach Monitoring Program.“The beach has been terrific this year,” said John Dolce, owner of the Beach House Grill and Ice Cream Stand in Dunkirk. “It’s really been a continuous increase in people ... with the combination of the skatepark and volleyball courts the area has really been getting better each and every year.”Dolce said that a lot of people are starting to find the Beach House Grill as a hidden treasure. The area is a perfect retreat for any family on a warm summer’s day. For those who don’t have the time or means to make a special trip to escape the heat there is always the reliable air-conditioner. Local merchants have seen a spike in air-conditioner sales over the last couple days, Home Depot in Dunkirk is currently sold-out of them.Tony Cota, general manager of Value, said although air-conditioners and box fans may do the trick he feels most people forget about the possibility of a ceiling fan.“It’s a good way to cool yourself down, even if you have an air-conditioner in the room it will help to circulate the air a little better.”Cota also recommends deck stainers with UV protection and weather stripping for around window air-conditioners. If lounging on a beach or sitting in an air conditioned house doesn’t float your boat you may want to consider the extreme method for beating the heat, buying a pool.Pat Schroeder of Colley Pools in Fredonia said sales are doing very well and that business has kept installation crews very busy. It is the most extreme solution but one to consider for those who like the privacy of swimming in there own back-yard. Although the time of year is very carefree and enjoyable, it can also be dangerous to anyone who does not prepare themselves.The National Weather Service issued heat advisories Monday from the Hudson Valley to the Buffalo Region and high levels of ground-level ozone, a major component of smog, prompted state officials to issue an air quality health advisory for the entire state. For all those who decide to work or play outside be advised to always stay hydrated and to never over exert yourself while outside in 80-degree heat.

For more information on Chautauqua Lake Real Estate & Living visit: www.chautauqualakehomes.com