Hanan Babikir Bedri, MS, MA, is the executive director of New Hampshire Public Health Association. To learn about NHPHA’s Beat the Heat NH campaign or for information on how to prepare for heat-related emergencies visit nhpha.org/beattheheatnh.
What’s better than a beautiful summer day in New Hampshire? The season can be a joyful break from dark days and harsh winters, a time to enjoy our state’s stunning landscapes and relax with family and friends. Unfortunately, with summer sun comes an under-discussed public health threat: heat-related illness.
This summer has been a hot one already, and the record-breaking temperatures we saw in June are expected to continue through July and August. Thousands of Granite Staters are at increased risk of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration, sunburn, and other health concerns. Luckily, there are steps we can take to look out for each other and stay safe on hot days. Together, Granite Staters can combat the risks of heat-related illness.
Nationwide, heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard. New Hampshire may be more famous for record-breaking wind chills than its scorching summers, but Granite Staters aren’t immune to the dangers of heat waves. In fact, over 20,000 Granite Staters are at increased risk of heat-related illness. We’re the second oldest state in the country, and our state’s seniors are especially vulnerable to the heat. Children and pregnant people are also susceptible to high temperatures, and extreme heat can exacerbate chronic health conditions such as asthma and other respiratory illnesses. In 2020, over 300 Granite Staters visited the emergency room due to heat-related illness. We can bring that number down by remembering a few simple, effective ways to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers of extreme heat.
During hot, sunny days, be mindful about the time you spend outside. Try to limit your exposure to direct sun from around 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you are outside during peak daylight hours, avoid strenuous exercise and take frequent breaks. Make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen, light, breathable clothing, and a sun-protective hat. Hydration is key. Drink more water and don’t wait until you are thirsty. Carrying a steel water bottle can ensure you have a cool, refillable water source on hand.
If you’re staying indoors, consider installing a window unit air conditioner in one of the rooms of your home. Having a cool, shaded place for family members to gather can make a huge difference. These rules apply just as much to our beloved pets. Since dogs and cats can’t sweat to cool off, we have to give them a helping hand by limiting exercise in peak daylight and ensuring access to cool, well-ventilated spaces. During hot days, check in on your friends and neighbors and plan heat-conscious social events — your community will thank you for it!
Even with good prevention and safe habits, crises can occur. Heatstroke is a severe heat-related illness that happens when a person’s body loses its ability to regulate temperature. Heatstroke can happen quickly and can lead to death if left untreated. Learn to recognize the signs: a fever of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or above, confusion and behavior changes, fainting, nausea, flushed skin, and rapid breathing and pulse. If you suspect someone is suffering from heatstroke, call emergency services immediately. In the meantime, you can provide first aid by sponging, misting, or spraying an affected person with cool water.
New Hampshire’s healthcare providers and public health professionals work hard to help keep us healthy, safe, and informed. NHPHA’s materials can help health workers inform patients about the prevention and treatment of heat-related illnesses.
Community leaders and state representatives also play a vital role in combating heat risks. Many Granite Staters work outside in daylight hours, take care of elderly people or children, or don’t have access to air conditioning. We need to serve our communities by creating more cooling centers: public spaces where all are welcome to find shelter from high temperatures.
According to New Hampshire’s Department of Health and Human Services, cooling centers must be free to use and provide air conditioning, access to water, space for over ten people, and accommodations for people with disabilities, among other amenities (See NHPHA’s website for a list of New Hampshire cooling centers). We call on all our towns and cities to rise to the challenge of fighting heat-related illness.
By staying informed, planning ahead, and taking good care of each other, we can make this another summer to remember.