Juneteenth celebrations are kicking off today as Brooklyn residents take on the overwhelming heat a day before the summer season.

While New Yorkers will be celebrating Juneteenth throughout the boroughs, health officials want those celebrating to keep safety in mind and stay cool. Officials recommend to stay in air conditioned spaces if possible, wear light clothing, limit physical activity and drink plenty of water.

With most celebrations taking place during peak sun hours, it's also recommended to wear sunscreen, eye protection and a hat. The National Weather Service is placing Brooklyn under an air quality alert as well.

Juneteenth marks the official end of slavery in the country back in 1865. Juneteenth became an officials federal holiday in 2021. It commemorates the day when the last group of enslaved people of Galveston, Texas were informed of their freedom two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.

Several Juneteenth events will be taking place across the city, including at the Brooklyn Public Library.

Click here to find cooling centers across New York City.