When the Heat Becomes a Matter of Survival

For many of us, a hot summer day means turning up the air conditioning, grabbing a cold drink, or finding somewhere cool to spend the afternoon.

But for someone experiencing homelessness, there may be no air conditioning, refrigerator filled with cold water, or safe place to escape the heat.

In Charleston, summer temperatures and humidity can make extreme heat more than uncomfortable…it can become dangerous, and even deadly.

People living outside often have limited access to shade, drinking water, and places to rest. Walking from place to place can increase the risk of dehydration, while high overnight temperatures can make it difficult for the body to recover.

The Dangers of Extreme Heat

When the body cannot cool itself effectively, it can quickly become overwhelmed.

Dehydration can prevent the body from regulating its temperature properly and may cause weakness, dizziness, confusion and other serious complications.

Heat exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, headache, nausea, weakness, dizziness and fainting. Without intervention, it can progress to heat stroke, a medical emergency that can cause confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, organ damage and death.

Extreme heat can also worsen existing health conditions and add physical and emotional strain to someone already navigating the daily challenges of homelessness.

What Can You Do?

You don't have to solve homelessness to make a difference on a hot day. Sometimes, a small act of care can help someone get through the most dangerous part of the day.

• Carry extra water.

• Offer electrolytes or hydrating snacks.

• Share local resources.
  All Charleston County Public Library (CCPL) branches serve as safe, air-conditioned public spaces to cool off during regular operating hours when extreme heat advisories are in effect.

• Check in.
  If someone appears overheated, help them cool down by offering water and helping them them find shade. If they show signs of heat exhaustion, call 911 immediately.

A Community Response

Keeping our neighbors safe during extreme heat is something we can do together. Churches, businesses, nonprofits, volunteers and individual neighbors all have a role to play.

But these immediate acts of kindness are part of a larger conversation. Water and shade can help someone survive today's heat, but lasting safety requires access to shelter, housing, healthcare and supportive relationships.

“On dangerously hot days, immediate relief is kind. A cold bottle of water, shade, or a fan can protect someone’s health and help them know that they are seen. Additionally, effective charity asks us to see the whole person. Offer help with dignity, ask before assuming what someone needs, and consider how your response can connect them to longer-term support, relationship, and stability.” — Kristen Parker, Co-Founder, Shared City, sharedcitychs.org

Charleston is a city known for its hospitality. When we offer a cold bottle of water, share a resource, help someone find a cool place, or simply stop long enough to ask how they are doing, we remind our neighbors that they have not been forgotten.