How Excessive Heat Kills and How to Stay Safe
Provided by: NPR|Published on: September 6, 2026
Grades: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Type: Articles/Websites
Subjects: Biology, Health
Authors: Maria Godoy, Connie Hanzhang Jin
Region: Global
Languages: English
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This illustrated comic explains the dangers of extreme heat and how it impacts the body's cooling system.
- The comic identifies who is most at risk, describes warning signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and offers practical steps for staying safe.
Teaching Materials
Classroom Implementation:
- Use this resource as a student-friendly avenue for discussing extreme heat.
- Have students demonstrate their understanding by creating a poster informing others about staying safe in extreme heat within their community. Discuss cooling centers around the community.
Climate Change Connection:
- Explain how climate change contributes to extreme heat events. Use this data resource to demonstrate the connection.
Sustainable Development Goals Connections:
• Use this resource to make connections to SDG 3, Good Health and Well-being, and SDG 13, Climate Action.
Options for Action:
Options for Action:
- Have students assess whether there are adequate cooling centers and widespread information about them in the community. Depending on what students find, have them create a community action project resulting in either a community cooling center proposal or an information campaign.
Interdisciplinary Connections:
- Social Studies:
- Discuss how communities, such as those who can't afford central air and those experiencing homelessness, are disproportionately impacted by extreme heat.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
