KENNETT SQUARE, PA — LCH Health and Community Services will join local public health officials and community organizations this month for a public discussion focused on summer heat safety, as health experts warn that extreme temperatures remain a leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States.
The event, titled Hot Days, Safe Ways, will be held on June 17 at the Jennersville YMCA in West Grove and is designed to help residents identify heat-related health risks, prevent illness, and respond to emergencies during the summer months. The program is being hosted by United Way Southern Chester County in partnership with LCH, the Chester County Health Department, and the YMCA of Greater Brandywine.
The discussion comes as public health agencies continue to emphasize preparedness during periods of extreme heat, particularly for children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with heart or lung disease. According to LCH Chief Medical Officer Dr. Joseph A. Greco, excessive heat remains one of the nation’s most significant weather-related health threats.
“Excessive heat is a leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S., affecting children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with heart and lung disease more often than other people,” Greco said. “I am looking forward to this important discussion, which can help folks stay healthy and safe.”
Panelists will discuss heat-related illness prevention, hydration, sun protection, and the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Organizers said attendees will receive practical guidance on recognizing when they or someone in their care may be experiencing a heat-related medical issue.
Scheduled speakers include Casey Cummings, assistant program manager for public health emergency preparedness and response at the Chester County Health Department; Katie Doochack, director of risk management for the YMCA of Greater Brandywine; Greco; and Melinda Olivencia-Lozada, a certified registered nurse practitioner with LCH.
Darcie Martin, chief executive officer of United Way Southern Chester County, said the event is intended to provide residents with information that can help them stay safe during periods of high temperatures.
The free event begins at 6 p.m. on June 17 at the Jennersville YMCA Pavilion, 880 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove. Organizers said the program is open to the public and appropriate for all ages.
To reserve a spot, residents can email info@unitedwayscc.org. Additional information about LCH Health and Community Services is available at www.LCHcommunityhealth.org.
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