The oppressive heat and humidity have lifeguards at beaches across Long Island trying to stay cool while also keeping beachgoers safe.

Bruce Meirowitz has been an ocean lifeguard for 53 years.

"When you walk on the sand and your feet start to burn walking on the sand, that's a tell right there that it's a hot day," says Meirowitz. "Scan the beach, you'll see many of the lifeguards have umbrellas up."

The lifeguards work one hour up and one hour down. They say staying safe in the heat is the same for them as it is for everyone else.

"We stay hydrated. Water bottles all day long," says Meirowitz. "We are in and out of the water on a regular basis."

Plenty of people were out finding ways to keep cool Friday. The beaches have seen increased capacity due to the heat.

For more cooling centers on Long Island, CLICK HERE.