Heat waves are periods of hot weather that last for several days. They kill thousands of people every year and are becoming an even greater threat with the acceleration of climate change. Extreme heat is especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions.

The best way to protect yourself in a heat wave is to stay as cool as possible. Move to the coolest part of your home, especially at night, and avoid outdoor work during hot times of day. If possible, spend time in a cool location, like a public building with air conditioning.

Heat stress can have negative social and economic consequences for individuals and communities. It increases rates of violent and aggressive behavior, including crime and domestic disputes. Heat stress also reduces economic productivity by making outdoor jobs less safe and making it harder to focus on schoolwork and professional responsibilities.