Safety is a top concern for Bronx residents and city officials when it comes to heat.

“Heat is one of the biggest killers of New Yorkers. We lose on average about 350 New Yorkers to heat and heat- related illnesses,” said Zach Iscol, commissioner of the Office of Emergency Management.

Some Bronx residents are being proactive in staying cool.

“I got my slushy. I drink a lot of ice, cold water… Pools, beaches and definitely the AC. You got to have AC” said Christ Bordley, from West Farms

The city is urging New Yorkers to take advantage of its free pools, as well as cooling centers, for those who don't have air conditioning in their homes.

It's not just humans that need to keep cool.

Nathalie Suarez, a South Bronx resident says she tries to go for short walks in the shade with her dog.

“We'll wait until the sun goes down, and then we'll walk him for a little bit.” she said.

As Bronx residents get ready for even hotter temperatures, the Office of Emergency Management says it is ready to deal with the increase in AC usage, but it wants to remind everyone that beating the heat is a team effort.

“The grid has been managing very very well with all the heat we have had to date um so very confident in that team and the grid at this point, not seeing any major impacts there, but again this is something that requires all of us to do our part." said Iscol.

In dangerously hot weather, Con Edison recommends turning off any unneeded lights and appliances. It also recommends setting air conditioners to a comfortable temperature without it being on full blast to avoid any power outages.