National Heat Awareness Day
Considering the climate crisis that is taking place on the planet in recent years, the weather continues to get hotter all throughout the year, especially during the summer months.
With more than 2300 heat-related deaths occurring in the United States in 2024 (compared to only 20 in 2014), the threat to health and life is on the rise.
National Heat Awareness Day is here to improve personal awareness as well as build safety protocols into communities to help protect from the dangerous health issues – to both humans and pets – that can result from hot weather.
How to Celebrate National Heat Awareness Day
Check out a few of these ideas for getting involved with National Heat Awareness Day:
Stay Informed
The most important thing to do for National Heat Awareness Day is to get educated and better understand the ways to stay healthy in the hotter months.
Record setting temperatures are a threat to everyone but especially elderly people, as well as women who are pregnant or folks who have conditions such as asthma or diabetes.
Read up on health websites, talk to your doctor and maintain healthy practices all summer long, espeically on the hottest days.
Enjoy the Sun Safely
Summer is an important time for getting into the sun and enjoying fun activities. Remember these tips for sun safety:
- Check the weather before going outdoors
- Avoid direct sun exposure and strenuous activities
- Regulate your temperature with light, loose-fitting clothing and a hat to shade your face
- NEVER leave children or pets in the car
Check In on Loved Ones
This is especially true for those who have at-risk neighbors or family members. Stop by or call to find out what kind of assistance they might need ahead of the hotter weather.
This might include arranging for an air conditioner repair person, checking to make sure fans are working, or reminding friends to avoid using ovens, stay out of direct sun, close curtains and window shades, and stay hydrated.
Learn About Climate Trends
Those who want to better understand the background of National Heat Awareness Day can take some time getting more information related to the reasons behind our rising temperatures here on the planet.
Check out some of these important facts according to the US Fifth National Climate Assessment:
- Extreme weather events are becoming more common and more severe
- Climate change may be mitigated by reducing the emissions of heat-trapping gases like carbon dioxide
- The highest year for US emissions was 2007 and cleaner energy has helped this decline since that time
- Progress with wind, solar and battery storage technologies allow continued advances that will hopefully restore the earth to its healthier temps
History of National Heat Awareness Day
Started in 2024 by the US Department of Health and Human Services, this event is meant to act as an opportunity for people all over the country (and the world!) to create safety protocols within their families and communities.
This event is also supported and promoted by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration and the National Weather Service.
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