By: Siri David

In Saint Paul there is a very huge risk with heat rising. The number of the hottest days keeps increasing yearly. This is a huge issue. In the past there was an average of no more than seven days a year that reached higher than 91.2^F. By 2050 it is estimated that there will be up to an average of 36 days a year that reach over that temperature of 91.2.

With temperatures rising this fast there are a lot of health concerns for people. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are things that can happen to the human body when in the heat for too long. These are a few signs of heat exhaustion: getting light headed, weakness, heavy sweating, and muscle cramps are all really common signs. Heat stroke signs are: dry mouth, hot skin, vomiting, confusion, and seizures.

These are really important things that you need to make sure you’re aware of as temperature rises. If these signs are happening try to get into a cooler setting as soon as possible. If that is not possible try putting water on your neck and wrists, because that will help your body cool down faster.

There are a lot of ways, as humans though, we can work to decrease heat rising so fast. Conserving energy is really important. That means doing little things like turning off all the lights when you leave, not letting your water run for longer than needed, and driving less can also help a lot. Doing these things helps conserve energy.

Another thing that can help out a lot is reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This means trying to use renewable energy sources like solar and hydro powers instead of using fossil fuels. Using electrical vehicles can also help out a lot.

Taking little or larger steps like these can really help the environment, and stop the climate from getting so warm so fast. This is a task that takes all of us one community at a time.