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This page consists of the proposal submitted by the Fall 2025 Capstone students to the Governor of Delaware as part of their Request for a Heat Awareness Week Proclamation
Extreme heat is the deadliest weather hazard in the United States, and Delaware is not immune. Between 2019 and 2023, our state saw over 1,450 emergency department visits due to heat-related illness, with July alone accounting for nearly half of all cases1. Vulnerable communities such as seniors, children, outdoor workers, low-income families, and those without access to cooling are hit the hardest.
Delaware is one of the fastest heating state in the US, and our average annual temperature has already risen by 3 degrees Fahrenheit since 19003, with summers projected to become even hotter and longer. Without action, heat will continue to put our neighbors, our health, and our economy at risk. Yet awareness of how to prevent heat illness remains low, and too many residents do not know the signs of heat exhaustion, where to find cooling centers, or how to protect vulnerable loved ones.
Proposal:
We propose creating an annual Delaware Heat Awareness Week
This week would:
Educate residents on recognizing and preventing heat-related illness
Promote safety measures for outdoor workers, athletes, and families
Share resources on cooling centers, hydration stations, and community support organizations
Partner with schools, clinics, shelters, and local organizations to reach those most at risk
Community Benefits
This campaign would save lives, reduce hospital visits, and strengthen community resilience in the face of rising temperatures. By raising awareness and sharing resources, we can protect our most vulnerable populations and build a healthier Delaware. We can bring the community and stakeholders together by surveying residents of Delaware on their perspective of heat problems and find solutions they can use.
Lead organization: Mid-Atlantic Alliance for Climate and Health (MAACH)
Endorsing partners:
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