Beat the Heat: Protecting Ourselves and Our Community

Beat the Heat: Protecting Ourselves and Our Community

Summer Heat Isn’t Just Uncomfortable—It’s Dangerous 

As summer temperatures soar across the country, we're reminded just how intense - and dangerous - extreme heat can be. Whether you live in the dry West or the humid South and East, heatwaves can affect anyone. But they especially impact our most vulnerable: seniors, pets, livestock, and wildlife.

At the same time, climate change continues to drive more frequent and severe weather events. Now more than ever, it's essential that we care for one another, our communities, and our shared planet.

Know the Signs: Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:

  • Heavy sweating

  • Dizziness or fainting

  • Muscle cramps

  • Cool, pale, clammy skin

  • Nausea or vomiting

Heat Stroke Symptoms:

  • Body temp over 103°F

  • Red, hot, dry skin (no sweating)

  • Rapid pulse

  • Confusion or unconsciousness

⚠️ Act quickly—heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 and try to cool the person down immediately.

Protecting the Most Vulnerable

 Seniors & Older Adults

Elderly neighbors are especially at risk during heatwaves.

Tips:

  • Check in regularly, especially if they live alone

  • Encourage hydration and proper airflow - Check Out JellyDrops.us

  • Help them get to local cooling centers or provide portable fans

 Pets

Our furry companions don’t sweat like we do. Even short exposure to high temps can cause overheating.

Tips:

  • Walk early or late in the day

  • Keep fresh, cool water available

  • Never leave pets in a hot car—even for a minute

  • Test pavement with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for their paws.

  • Check out these tips to protect your Pets in the heat. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-paws-hot-pavement/

 Wildlife

Local birds, squirrels, and pollinators suffer when water sources dry up and natural shade disappears.

Tips:

  • Place shallow water dishes in shaded areas

  • Let native plants grow to offer shade and food

  • Skip pesticides that harm local ecosystems

 Livestock & Farm Animals

Animals like cows, horses, and chickens are extremely sensitive to heat stress.

Tips:

  • Provide ample shade and water

  • Avoid handling or transporting during peak heat

  • Use fans or misters where possible

🌎 The Bigger Picture: Why It’s Getting Hotter

Global temperatures are rising. That means:

  • More heatwaves

  • Longer droughts

  • More wildfires and storms

  • Shifting weather patterns

  • Flash flooding

This is climate change in real time - and it affects us all. But it’s not too late to act.


💚 What You Can Do (Even in Small Ways)

Here are a few simple but powerful steps you can take to help keep things cooler—both for yourself and for the planet:

✅ Reduce waste: Reuse, recycle, compost when you can
✅ Conserve water: Water plants early, fix leaks, skip the hose when possible
✅ Plant a tree: Shade = natural air conditioning
✅ Drive less: Walk, bike, or carpool
✅ Support sustainable businesses: Choose brands that value eco-conscious practices
✅ Talk about it: Share what you’re learning with friends and neighbors
✅ Vote: Support policies that protect people and the environment


🌻 Want to Share the Sunshine minus the heat?

At EARTH & FERN, we believe small acts of care matter. Whether you’re looking to brighten someone’s day, practice self-care, or support the planet, we’ve got wellness gifts and essentials to help you do just that. 

👉 https://earthandfern.com/collections

 


 

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