Dangers of Hot Weather: Protecting Children, Pets, & Vulnerable Individuals

WNC -- August 1, 2024: As Western North Carolina experiences another sweltering summer, the risks associated

with extreme heat are increasingly apparent. Every year, tragic incidents occur due to children and pets being left in vehicles or confined spaces without air conditioning. With temperatures rising, it's crucial to understand the dangers and take preventive measures to protect vulnerable individuals and pets from heat-related illnesses.

Children and Pets Left in Vehicles

One of the most alarming risks during hot weather is leaving children or pets in parked vehicles. Even with windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, becoming dangerously high in a matter of minutes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the interior of a car can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit within 10 minutes when the outside temperature is just 85 degrees. This situation can quickly lead to heatstroke, which can cause severe organ damage or even be fatal.

Children are particularly susceptible to heat-related illnesses because their bodies heat up three to five times faster than adults. Similarly, pets, especially dogs and cats, are at high risk as they cannot sweat like humans and rely on panting to cool down. In the U.S., an average of 38 children die each year from being left in hot cars, and countless pets suffer from the same fate.

Preventive measures include:

Always check the back seat: Make it a habit to look in the backseat before locking the car.
Use reminders: Place a significant item like a purse or phone in the backseat to remind you of a child or pet.
Create a plan: Have a protocol with childcare providers to ensure children are not left behind.
Dangers of Hot Weather in Homes Without Air Conditioning
Homes without air conditioning can become dangerously hot during summer months, posing risks to both people and pets. Individuals who are elderly, have chronic illnesses, or are very young are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. These conditions can lead to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, and, if untreated, can escalate to life-threatening situations.

For those without air conditioning, it's important to take measures to keep homes cool:

Use fans wisely: While fans do not lower air temperature, they can help evaporate sweat, providing a cooling effect. Place fans in windows to circulate air more effectively.

Block out heat: Use curtains or shades to block sunlight and keep rooms cooler. Consider reflective window film to reduce heat entry.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help regulate body temperature and avoid dehydration.
Seek cooler spaces: Spend time in air-conditioned places like shopping malls, libraries, or community centers during peak heat hours.
For pets in homes without air conditioning, it's essential to provide a cool environment:

Access to water: Ensure pets have constant access to fresh, cool water.
Cool sleeping areas: Provide a damp towel or a cooling mat for pets to lie on.
Limit exercise: Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.
Community Resources and Support
In response to rising temperatures, several community resources are available in Western North Carolina to assist those in need. Local governments and non-profit organizations often provide cooling centers, which are air-conditioned spaces open to the public during extreme heat waves. Additionally, programs like the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) offer financial help to eligible households for cooling expenses.

In Western North Carolina, where the summer heat can become intense, staying informed and prepared is key to preventing heat-related tragedies. By taking proactive steps and utilizing available resources, we can protect our children, pets, and vulnerable community members from the dangers of extreme heat.