Check on Neighbors Without Making Assumptions
Original preparedness explainer · Reviewed as a draft October 29, 2026 · General U.S. guidance
Older adults, people with certain medical needs and households without effective cooling may need extra planning during heat. A simple, respectful check-in can reveal a practical gap.
Ask whether they know where to cool down, have transportation and can follow local alerts. Offer specific help, such as checking cooling-center hours together.
Never enter unsafe conditions or promise medical assistance you cannot provide. Contact emergency services for immediate danger.
Heat deserves advance planning. Check local heat alerts, find a reliable cool indoor space, drink water as appropriate, and help neighbors who may have trouble staying cool. A fan alone may not keep an extremely hot room safe.
Put this into action
Choose one manageable improvement today. Confirm current warnings and local instructions with your city/county emergency management agency and the National Weather Service.