As towns across Westchester County prepare for America 250 and Fourth of July events, local officials are also urging residents to take precautions with a dangerous heat wave expected.

"It's such an amazing time to be in America, and we should take pride in our country," said White Plains Mayor Justin Brasch.

White Plains is preparing for its annual Independence Day Celebration on July 2 at White Plains High School. Mayor Brasch says a cooling center will be available.

"If you're there and you need a little extra assistance, you can go to either a police officer, a firefighter or somebody with an orange shirt and they'll all make sure you're brought to a safe and cool place so you can enjoy," he says.

The City of Yonkers has events happening from July 1 through the 5, which includes things like a parade, an arrival of a ship from the Netherlands and concerts. Each offers different places to beat the heat.

"We have activities that are under the pier, they're down at the waterfront. They're in some of the bars downtown. So, without a doubt there are places for folks to go and to engage and be involved," said Steven Sansone, commissioner of Yonkers Parks and Recreation.

Westchester County officials are also taking steps to help residents stay safe as a potential heat wave moves through the region.

County pools and beaches will stay open an extra hour on Wednesday and Thursday, giving people more time to cool off.

The extended hours apply to several locations, including Playland Pool and Beach, Glen Island, Saxon Woods, Sprain Ridge Pool, Brook Tibbett and Wilson's Wave.

On July 1 and July 2, those facilities will remain open until 7:30 p.m., with last entry at 7 p.m.

Health officials are urging residents to take the heat seriously and stay hydrated.