Be smart when it’s hot: Take extreme heat seriously

By Elizabeth Rasmussen, courtesy of iStockphoto

Summer’s here, bringing hot weather with it for much of the U.S. The East and West coasts have already had their first heat waves of the season and it’s only been about a week since summer began.
Because of climate change, extreme heat is becoming more frequent in places that haven’t experienced it in the past. Climate change makes extreme heat waves hotter, longer and more frequent. Extreme heat presents many risks to human health, including death. So it’s important to understand the ways you can protect yourself. It’s much easier to prevent heat-related injuries than it is to treat them.

Before heading out, check news and weather sites to know which days are going to be hotter than average. On really hot days, don’t stay in the heat for long periods of time. Find cool spaces like indoor buildings with air-conditioning. Stay hydrated, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Don’t do a lot of physical activity outside during a heat wave and be extra sure not to leave kids or pets in the car. Check on seniors to make sure they have a place to stay safe in the heat as well.

You can also take steps to prevent extreme heat by reducing your release of emissions that harm the climate. That means you can walk or bike to places rather than drive. Take public transit to work or carpool with friends. Shop locally grown foods that are in season.

For more everyday ideas to fight climate change, check out this tipsheet.