Miami summers are brutal. The heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous, especially for certain groups of people. Here’s how to stay safe when temperatures climb.

Who’s Most at Risk

Heat-related illness can affect anyone, but these groups are especially vulnerable:

• Older adults (65+), whose bodies don’t regulate temperature as well
• Young children and infants
• People with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory issues
• People taking certain medications that affect hydration or body temperature
• Outdoor workers
• Homeless individuals without access to air conditioning
• People who can’t afford to run AC at home

Warning Signs of Heat Illness

Heat Exhaustion:

• Heavy sweating
• Weakness or dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Cool, clammy skin

What to do: Move to a cool place, drink water, use cool cloths on skin. If symptoms don’t improve within an hour, seek medical help.

Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency):

• High body temperature (103°F or higher)
• Hot, dry skin (no sweating)
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Loss of consciousness
• Rapid pulse

What to do: Call 911 immediately. Move the person to a cool place and try to lower their temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath.

How to Stay Safe

Hydration:

• Drink water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate you
• If you’re working outside, drink at least one cup of water every 15-20 minutes

Stay Cool:

• Stay indoors during peak heat (11 AM – 4 PM) when possible
• Use air conditioning. If you don’t have AC at home, spend time in public cooling centers (libraries, malls, community centers)
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
• Take cool showers or baths

Watch Out for Others:

• Check on elderly neighbors and relatives
• Never leave children or pets in cars, even for “just a minute”
• Know the signs of heat illness in case someone around you needs help

Cooling Centers in Miami

Miami-Dade County operates cooling centers during extreme heat. Call 311 or visit miamidade.gov for locations.

Five Health’s Community Care Days include heat safety education and water distribution in neighborhoods with limited AC access. Follow us on social media for event locations.

Stay safe out there.

Download our summer safety tips at 5-health.com/resources

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