Risk groups
Picture:
Dirk Hanus
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Heat endangers people
The human body's internal heat balance is designed to maintain a constant temperature of around 37 °C. As the temperature rises, the demands on the cardiovascular system, the musculoskeletal system and the respiratory system increase. The entire body has to work harder to keep the core body temperature constant at 37 °C. People in the following groups should take particular care of themselves or be protected from the heat:
- People aged 65 and over
- Older people living alone who have problems with their mobility
- People in need of care
- Babies and small children
- People with pre-existing conditions
- People with acute illnesses
- People who work outdoors and who do heavy physical labour
- People in special circumstances (for example: homeless people, people with addictions)
