'Better prevention of addiction': Federal government wants to ban drinking with friends - n-tv.de

In Germany, homeless individuals face life-threatening risks due to extreme heat, according to warnings issued by the national association for homelessness support. Without access to water, shade, or cool spaces, these vulnerable people are left exposed to dangerous conditions, the organization stated. Many already suffer from pre-existing health conditions that could worsen under such stress. The warning comes amid rising temperatures that have led to a sharp increase in heat-related deaths. The number of fatalities linked to high temperatures has continued to climb, with estimates indicating over 11,900 deaths attributed to extreme heat up to July 26th. This figure surpasses previous records, including the 9,000 deaths recorded during the scorching summer of 2018. A particularly severe week in early June saw approximately 9,600 of these deaths, driven by temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in many areas. Health authorities warn that prolonged exposure to such conditions can lead to serious health complications, including heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and dehydration, which can be fatal. In response to these dangers, the German state of Hesse was the first to introduce a heat action plan in early 2023. At the time, the state’s Minister of Health, Kai Klose, noted that the preceding summer had been among the warmest on record. Since then, other regions have followed suit, though implementation remains uneven. Among the largest cities in Hesse, only a fraction have finalized their plans, with some still in the process of development. For instance, Kassel's plan is expected to be released before the end of the year. The city of Frankfurt has developed its own comprehensive heat action plan focusing on immediate responses and preventive measures aimed at protecting especially vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, sick individuals, and young children. The plan includes practical guidelines for reducing indoor temperatures, identifying cooler public spaces, and providing advice on how to stay safe during heatwaves. The goal is to prevent temperature-related illnesses and deaths through proactive measures. To mitigate the effects of urban heat, the Hessian government recommends initiatives such as creating shaded areas, expanding green spaces near water bodies, continuously replacing impermeable surfaces, and planting trees along streets. These efforts aim to reduce the formation of “heat islands,” which are urban areas that experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas due to human activity and infrastructure. The Hochtaunus region is currently working on its own heat action plan based on the Hessian model, aiming to improve local microclimates and make communities more resilient against rising temperatures. In smaller towns within the Taunus area, similar preparations are underway. In Königstein, for example, a climate adaptation manager introduced a guide titled “Heat Knigge” offering tips on proper behavior during high temperatures. The document, available from the Environmental Agency, provides initial pages that the municipality can customize further. Additionally, many cities now provide information online about the locations of public drinking fountains, helping residents find accessible water sources during heatwaves. Efforts to build community resilience continue, with discussions ongoing about establishing a heat protection network that encourages neighbors to look out for one another during periods of extreme weather. As these plans take shape, the focus remains on ensuring that all citizens, especially those living outdoors, have access to essential resources and support systems necessary to survive the increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves.