Take the Cool, Clean and Caring Pledge
3,274 signatures toward our 30,000 Goal
Sponsor: The Diabetes Site
Extreme heat combined with high pollution doubles the risk of a deadly heart attack. Take action for the health of people and pets!
Are you concerned about the escalating threat of extreme heat and pollution to your health and the well-being of your furry companions? With climate change fueling more intense heat waves and wildfires1, the danger is real, and the time to act is now. We cannot afford to wait as the risks of extreme heat and pollution compound, impacting our lives and the future of our planet.
Understanding the Urgency: Extreme Heat and Pollution
Extreme heat waves and soaring pollution levels are a deadly combination, posing significant health hazards to both humans and pets2. As temperatures rise to unprecedented levels, heat-related illnesses become more common, leading to fatalities in severe cases. Additionally, particle pollution, especially PM2.53, infiltrates our lungs and bloodstream, causing respiratory issues, inflammation, and increasing the risk of heart attacks and stroke. The consequences of inaction are dire, and it's crucial to address these threats head-on.
Take the Pledge to Reduce the Threat
The power to create change lies in our collective actions. By taking the pledge to reduce the threat of extreme heat and pollution, you are joining a movement that puts health and well-being at the forefront. Together, we can protect ourselves, our pets, and future generations from the devastating impacts of climate change.
Together, Let's Protect Our Health and Our Planet
Taking the pledge to reduce the threat of extreme heat and pollution is not just about our well-being today; it's about securing a safer and healthier tomorrow for people and pets. As wildfires in Canada continue to emit smoke that crosses borders, the urgency to act becomes clearer than ever4.
Sign the Pledge Now
Your commitment to this pledge is a powerful step towards a more sustainable world. Together, we can build a resilient and thriving society that cherishes both human and pet health.
Let us unite in this endeavor to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our pets from the deadly effects of extreme heat and pollution. By signing the pledge, you are not only securing a healthier future for yourself but also creating a positive impact on the lives of countless others. Act now, and let's make a difference together.
- Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, "Wildfires and Climate Change."
- Emily Barone, TIME (28 July 2022), "Why Extreme Heat Plus Pollution Is a Deadly Combination."
- Yu-Fei Xing, Yue-Hua Xu, Min-Hua Shi, Yi-Xin Lian, Journal of Thoracic Disease (January 2016), "The impact of PM2.5 on the human respiratory system."
- Robert Lea, Space.com (1 July 2023), "Smoke from Canadian wildfires chokes US Midwest, reaches Europe (satellite photos)."
The Pledge:
Extreme heat and pollution pose significant health risks to both humans and pets. During heat waves, temperatures soar to dangerous levels, leading to heat-related illnesses and even fatalities. Additionally, particle pollution, particularly PM2.5, can infiltrate our lungs and bloodstream, causing respiratory problems, inflammation, and increasing the risk of heart attacks and stroke. The impact of extreme heat and pollution on our health is a pressing concern as we witness the devastating effects of climate change.
I pledge to take the following actions to reduce the threat of extreme heat and pollution to myself and my pets:
- Stay Informed and Prepared: I will stay updated with local air quality reports and weather forecasts, especially during heat waves and wildfires. Being informed will help me take necessary precautions to protect myself and my pets.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: During periods of extreme heat and poor air quality, I will minimize outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and pets.
- Indoor Air Purification: I will invest in air purifiers with HEPA filters for my home to reduce indoor air pollution levels and create a safer environment for my family and pets.
- Provide Safe Haven for Pets: I will create a cool and shaded space indoors for my pets with access to fresh water to keep them comfortable during extreme heat.
- Reduce Energy Consumption: To contribute to reducing pollution, I will use energy-efficient appliances and limit my reliance on fossil fuels whenever possible.
- Support Green Initiatives: I will actively participate in local efforts to plant trees and create green spaces, which play a crucial role in improving air quality.
- Advocate for Environmental Policies: I will support policies and initiatives that aim to reduce air pollution and combat climate change, recognizing the importance of collective action.
- Educate My Community: I will raise awareness about the dangers of extreme heat and pollution in my community, encouraging others to take proactive measures for their well-being and their pets.
- Prioritize Pet Health Checkups: I will schedule regular health checkups for my pets to detect and address any health issues promptly, ensuring their well-being during challenging environmental conditions.
- Be an Agent of Change: By taking these actions and embodying responsible environmental practices, I will contribute to creating a healthier and more sustainable future for all living beings.
Together, these actions will ensure a healthier future for ourselves, our pets, and the planet we share. By pledging to protect ourselves from extreme heat and pollution, we can safeguard our well-being and create a ripple effect of positive change. Let us unite in this endeavor to build a resilient and thriving society that cherishes both human and pet health. As we take these steps, we pave the way for a sustainable world that future generations can flourish in, free from the deadly effects of extreme heat and pollution.
Pledged by,
