Resources to cope with extreme heat
Extreme heat is a serious threat. It is likely to get worse with climate change, and BIPOC communities are the most affected. To prepare for heat, below are some things you can do. See ready.gov for more, and check out this Vox article.
But not all of us bear the same heat. Heat injustice is a result of redlining and other policies. BIPOC communities are more likely to live in energy inefficient housing, have fewer trees and green spaces — which contribute to cooling — and work in dangerous outdoor jobs. As we take care of our families and bodies, see below for 1 thing you can do to address the system failure.
Recognize heat illness
These are some signs of heat stroke and other heat illness. Call 911 or go to an emergency room if you or someone you know has the symptoms.
Know your local cooling centers
If you do not have air conditioning and can’t easily visit a family, friend, or neighbor’s home, know where your free public places are. Because extreme heat can cause power outages, it's good to know these locations before you need them.
NYC’s tree canopies, sprinklers, and others cooling features. It also shows where NYC residents are most lacking in green space — mostly BIPOC communities.
Prep for indoor heat — home, body, and community
You can do a variety of things to take extra care of your body and your community, like keeping heat out and not adding to it inside. (This also saves on energy costs even if you can use an air conditioner.) Examples include:
Get sunshades (such as blackout curtains).
If you have an air conditioning/ventilation system, check that they work before you need them.
Insulate your home and close window shades or curtains.
Avoid using the stove, oven, or hair dryers.
Take cool showers or baths —not too cold!
Drink more water, even if you’re not thirsty.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, sugary drinks.
Contact folks you know more often who might be at risk.
Prep for outdoor heat
Learn about rights to safe working conditions. If you must work outside:
Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothing if possible.
Be alert for the signs of heat illness in yourself and in your colleagues.
Don’t over do it physically
Drink alot of water, even if you are not thirsty.
Stay out of direct sun.
Wear a hat and sunscreen
Sign up for alerts
In many areas, you could sign up for local alerts. An example is Notify NYC.
Action corner
Many environmental justice organizations are working on improving heat policies across the country to address heat injustice. Reach out and get on their mailing list to start learning more and find out how to get involved.
In New York City WeACT’s Extreme Heat Coalition is a place to start. Download their 2024 Extreme Heat Policy Agenda here.
