As temperatures soar across Central Florida, local activists are giving away free heat stress first aid kits to residents of Orlando disadvantaged communities during a forum on extreme heat.
The community forum and free giveaway will be on Thursday, July 13th at 6pm at Callahan Neighborhood Center located at 101 N. Parramore Avenue in Orlando.
Heat stress first aid kits contain essential items to stay safe during this heatwave, including:
- Cold packs
- Disposable thermometers
- Electrolyte tablets and powder mix
- Waterproof medical tape
- Anti-shock blankets
- Portable mini fans
Every year across Central Florida, innocent victims die from excessive heat due to a lack of equity in resource distribution. With this effort, the hope is that unnecessary heat-related deaths and injuries can be prevented. Community residents and activists said the Extreme Heat forum was also needed due to failed leadership from Mayor Buddy Dyer, City Commissioners and other local elected officials.
“We are standing in the gap created by a lack of leadership from elected officials and some community groups to ensure there is equity in protecting the most vulnerable among us,” said event organizer Lawanna Gelzer.
As a longtime community activist in Orlando and Orange County, Gelzer has taken the lead to help residents across a multitude of issues impacting disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Central Florida emergency management teams advise residents and visitors to follow these tips when it’s hot outside:
- NEVER leave a child or pet inside of a vehicle
- Stay hydrated
- Monitor body temperature
- Protect vulnerable individuals and pets from hot temperatures
- Wear light, loose fitting clothing
- Use shade, take breaks in cool places
- Limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day
According to organizers, the kits will be distributed to churches, civic organizations, neighborhood associations and community leaders. Attend the community forum to learn more locally.
How can I receive a extreme heat kit