Climate change has led to an increase in extreme heat events around the world, which can have severe consequences for individuals and communities. Heatwaves can cause heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and even death, with vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, outside workers, and those with pre-existing health conditions at the highest risk. It is crucial that individuals and communities take extreme heat seriously and prepare themselves to minimize the risks associated with these events.
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are two common health problems caused by exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, dizziness, and nausea, while heatstroke can cause seizures, organ damage, and even death. Extreme heat can also exacerbate existing medical conditions such as heart disease and respiratory problems. When combined with poor air quality, extreme heat can become even more dangerous, making it too risky for anyone to be outside, regardless of their health.
To prepare for extreme heat events, government agencies and organizations must engage in outreach efforts to communicate the dangers and offer actionable solutions. They can provide free tools like the CDC/OSHA/NIOSH Heat Safety Tool, the National Weather Service’s heat advisories and warnings, or the Cool Corridors Score, which combines heat, humidity, and air quality into one easy-to-understand score.
In addition to using free tools, individuals can take other steps to prepare for extreme heat, such as staying hydrated, wearing loose-fitting clothing made of lightweight and breathable fabric, and seeking air-conditioned shelter during the hottest parts of the day. While air conditioning is not a universal solution, it is a vital tool in protecting individuals from extreme heat and poor air quality. Communities should know where government and community-funded cooling centers are located and how to get to them. Cooling centers are public buildings and facilities that provide a cool, air-conditioned space for individuals to rest and cool off during extreme heat events. Many cities and counties across the country offer cooling centers, which are often funded by local governments and are typically open during normal business hours. Public libraries and community centers can also offer air-conditioned spaces and other resources to help citizens stay cool during extreme heat events.