Municipal heat wave response plans

Am J Public Health. 2004 Sep;94(9):1520-2. doi: 10.2105/ajph.94.9.1520.

Abstract

Approximately 400 people die from extreme heat each year in the United States, and the risk of heat waves may increase as a result of global climate change. Despite the risk of heat-related morbidity and mortality, many cities lack written heat response plans. In a review of plans from 18 cities at risk for heat-related mortality, we found that many cities had inadequate or no heat response plans. This is an important area for further investigation and government attention.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Heat Stroke / epidemiology
  • Heat Stroke / etiology
  • Heat Stroke / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Infrared Rays / adverse effects*
  • Local Government
  • Quality Assurance, Health Care
  • Regional Health Planning* / standards
  • Regional Health Planning* / statistics & numerical data
  • Risk Factors
  • Seasons
  • Sunstroke / epidemiology
  • Sunstroke / etiology
  • Sunstroke / prevention & control*
  • United States / epidemiology
  • Urban Health*
  • Urban Population / statistics & numerical data