Risk library
Heatwave

Protect people, routines and the home during extreme heat.

Heat becomes dangerous when the body cannot cool down and the home no longer releases heat at night. Preparedness combines hydration, cooling routines, vulnerable-person checks and home adaptation.

Confusion, fainting, very hot skin, persistent headache, nausea or unusual fatigue can signal heat illness. Move the person to a cooler place and seek medical help when symptoms are severe or persistent.

Warning signs

Watch both people and the building.

Heat risk is not only an outdoor temperature. It depends on humidity, night cooling, ventilation, vulnerability and the way the home stores heat.

Watch cramps, headaches, dizziness, nausea, intense thirst or very hot skin.
Check whether indoor temperature drops at night, especially for vulnerable people.
Follow heat alerts, pollution episodes and local advice.
Identify isolated seniors, infants, people with health conditions and pets.
Cooling routine

Organize the day and night cycle.

The goal is to block heat during the day, release it at night and keep people hydrated and cooled progressively.

Close windows, shutters and sun protections when outside air becomes hotter.
Ventilate at night when outdoor air is cooler.
Drink regularly before feeling thirsty.
Use lukewarm showers, wet cloths, misting and cool places.
Home adaptation

Reduce heat gain before the next episode.

External shade and passive cooling are often more robust than relying only on emergency reactions.

Use exterior shading before sunlight reaches the glass.
Create shade with vegetation and reduce mineral surfaces around the home.
Consider reflective roof solutions with a professional.
Improve attic and roof insulation to delay heat entry.
Household checklist
Identify the coolest room and nearby cool places.
Prepare a day/night routine: close, shade, ventilate, hydrate and check in.
Keep water and water-rich food available.
List vulnerable relatives or neighbors to call every day.
Ask medical advice for treatments, heart or kidney disease, or fluid restriction.