Disabled Individuals Report Heatwave Advice Creates Risks

Why it matters locally: Public health agencies in Maryland, such as the Maryland Department of Health, may need to review their heatwave safety guidelines to ensure they adequately address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of disabled residents across the state.

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Disabled individuals are reporting that official guidance for staying safe during heatwaves can place them in greater danger. Campaigners describe their experiences during extreme heat as a struggle for survival. Advocacy groups indicate that general public health advice often does not account for the specific needs of disabled people. This oversight, they state, can lead to unintended consequences when disabled individuals attempt to follow recommended safety measures.