Just Patios Scorching temperatures can lead to fatal heat-related illnesses due to the body's inability to cool itself. Older adults, youngsters, and those with chronic health issues are at highest risk of succumbing to extreme temperatures. Sadly, over 700 U.S. citizens die each year as a consequence of this hazardous weather phenomenon—so everyone should take necessary precautions. City residents bear the brunt of the harmful effects of heat waves, as urban areas are already hotter than their non-urban counterparts due to the “heat island effect.” However, local governments can take effective measures to help protect people and vital infrastructure during extreme temperature conditions—both in response to an oppressive heatwave or as part of long-term planning. With these steps, everyone can reduce their vulnerability and prepare for future risks with greater confidence. Heat Islands Cities should incorporate sustainable strategies, such as green or cool roofs, pavements, and vegetation, into their long-term planning to bolster resistance against future extreme heat events. These cooling measures will help reduce the public health dangers posed by intense heat waves and strengthen urban systems. Protection from Rising Temperatures The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends that homeowners ensure their houses are guarded against extreme heat. These steps include: ●Adding insulation for temperature control ● Equipping windows and doors with reflectors and weatherstripping for improved energy efficiency ●Updating old windows and doors that lack thermal protection Properly insulating the roof can lower energy costs by up to 20 percent. These easy tips will help keep the home safe in hot climates. But if roofs, windows, and doors are not routinely maintained, it can lead to more severe issues, such as water damage that may prove costly in the long run. Measures Homeowners Should Take A comprehensive heat response plan that unites individual techniques into one cohesive strategy is essential to mitigate the adverse effects of extreme temperatures. Such an approach should contain forecasting and monitoring, education and awareness initiatives, and protocols for responding to extreme heat events, detailed in the Excessive Heat Events Guidebook from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). By adhering to the guidebook's recommendations about notification options and other critical components of any successful program or plan, people can ensure they are prepared for even the hottest days. Heat Response Plan ht tps: / /www. justpat ios .com.au ht tps: / /www.c l imate .gov /news- features /understanding- c l imate /c l imate -change-g loba l - temperature ht tps: / /www.epa .gov /heat is lands /adapt ing-heat ht tps: / /www.ready .gov /heat ht tps: / /www.epa .gov /heat - is lands /excess ive-heat -events - gu idebook Sources :