Heat wave strikes: immediate measures against life-threatening heat!

Heat wave strikes: immediate measures against life-threatening heat!

With a heat wave that will bring what will feel like unbearable temperatures on Saturday, June 15th from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., the German Weather Service (DWD) is urgently warning of health risks. Vulnerable groups such as old people and people in need of care, small children and animals are particularly affected. Fire department spokesman Kai Weets emphasizes that life-threatening temperatures can occur even with the windows open and in the shade in locked cars. If danger is suspected, quick action is required.

The police and fire brigade strongly advise you to inform the authorities immediately if children or animals are left behind. If you hesitate, it could have dire consequences: “If in doubt, don’t waste time” – that’s the clear message from the rescuers. Even if the people affected are not immediately injured, the public order office is informed, which can check the owner's ability to care. Violations can result in high penalties. Last summer there was a shocking incident in Warstein, where an infant was locked in the car at 45 degrees Celsius because the mother accidentally locked the vehicle.

Safety for children and animals

The danger to children and animals should not be underestimated during extreme heat. Experts recommend that affected children immediately be placed in the shade and provided with sufficient water. Wet cloths on the forehead and neck can help, while cooling wraps around the calves support circulation. Under no circumstances should a child be abandoned in the heat, as this could be viewed as bodily harm or child abuse - a legal aspect that should give parents pause.

Animals, especially dogs and cats, are also at great risk. They do not have the ability to sweat and rely primarily on panting to cool themselves in high temperatures. According to a warning from BR.de, animals should never be left in parked cars, not even in the shade or with the window open. If there are signs of overheating such as heavy panting, glassy eyes or difficulty with coordination, immediate action should be taken. As the source describes, passers-by can inform the police if the owner cannot be reached quickly. According to the Animal Protection Act, strict punishments come into consideration here, which can range from fines to prison sentences of up to three years.

General heat protection measures

According to the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Relief (BBK), heat stress in Germany has increased in recent years. The number of “hot days” – those with temperatures of 30 degrees Celsius and more – has increased. Older people, people living alone and those with chronic illnesses are particularly at risk. You should be visited or contacted by telephone regularly to minimize health risks such as dehydration or circulatory problems.

Preventive measures are crucial. You should drink enough, preferably mineral water or diluted juices, and go to cool places. The apartment should be well ventilated and shaded. When traveling, it is advisable to wear lighter clothing, use sunscreen and postpone physical activities until the cooler morning hours. Nobody should ever be left alone in a car during heat waves - this applies to people and animals alike.