Heat action plans in NRW: Kreis Kleve takes pioneering role

Heat action plans in NRW: Kreis Kleve takes pioneering role

Heat action plans: Community efforts to protect heat in Kleve

In a time when heat waves are becoming increasingly common due to climate change, municipalities and their health planners are faced with the challenge of developing effective measures for heat protection. The focus is particularly on the district of Kleve, which as one of the few communities in North Rhine-Westphalia has already implemented an active heat action plan.

Health protection for endangered groups

The heat action plan in the district of Kleve is aimed specifically at vulnerable population groups. These include older people aged 65 and over, chronically ill, toddlers and socio -economically disadvantaged people, such as homeless people. These groups are particularly at risk of suffering health problems as a result of extreme warmth. To avoid this, the district plans concrete measures, such as creating cool rooms in care facilities and the sensitization of the staff for heat -related risks.

active measures for heat protection

The implementation of specific measures takes place in accordance with the warning levels of the German Weather Service (DWD). At warning level I, which uses more than 32 degrees in the case of felt temperatures, the district of Kleve specifically informs about press releases and other media. In the case of higher warning level II, more intensive communication is carried out over the Internet and radio in order to clarify the population about health risks and convey suitable protective measures.

The way to the future: Diversity of plans

heat action plans play an important role in urban development. These plans can include different measures, such as the creation of more city green, the creation of shadow areas in daycare centers or information campaigns to raise awareness of the citizens. The reduction in area sealing is also a central topic, since green areas not only regulate the water balance, but also contribute to the cooling of urban rooms.

measures and communication in focus

The administration in the district of Kleve started planning these measures in October last year. The topic was dealt with comprehensively in the Committee on Labor, Health, Social Affairs and Demography. In view of more often heat waves are considered crucial to protect the health of the population sustainable.

a model in North Rhine-Westphalia

Up to the present, only two municipalities in North Rhine-Westphalia, including Cologne and the district of Kleve, have established a full heat action plan. Nevertheless, the increasing planning of similar measures in a further 13 circles and cities testifies to an increasing awareness of the problem of the heat. Gelsenkirchen, Hamm and Mönchengladbach also plan to develop their own plans in the near future.

Overall, it becomes clear that the district of Kleve takes a pioneering role by actively against the health risks of heat waves. However, the success of these measures is closely linked to the cooperation of the local communities. Effective heat protection strategies can only be realized through joint action that not only address the acute problem, but also promote long -term improvements in urban design.