​Heat Emergency Awareness and Treatment (HEAT)

Between 2017 and 2019, a randomized control trial involving 16,000 individuals hailing from Karachi was conducted to investigate heat emergency awareness and treatment (HEAT). Subsequently, the Centre secured additional funding to expand the dissemination of this study to the district level.

This project comprises two primary components:

1: ​Consultative Meeting:

On August 2, 2024, CETE in collaboration with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), organized a consultative stakeholder meeting to understand severe heat events in Pakistan, raise awareness about heat exposure and treatment, and develop a comprehensive Heat Plan to address climate change.

The meeting brought together key officials, including Assistant Commissioners, Additional Deputy Commissioners, and District Health Officers from Sindh, as well as Dr. Sardar Sarfaraz, Chief Meteorologist of the Pakistan Meteorological Department; Imdad Hussain Siddiqui, Director of Operations at PDMA; and representatives from Rescue 1122 and Sindh Integrated Emergency and Health Services.

A consensus was reached on the need for a more effective and institutionalized District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), enhanced coordination on heatwave management across districts, and a stronger focus on an effective communication campaign between government departments and non-profit organizations. All stakeholders agreed to hold regular meetings and supported the development of a Heatwave Management Plan for adversely affected districts.

2: ​​​​Informational Video: 

We've developed a concise 3-5 minute video to raise awareness about heat-related illnesses, targeting urban adults in Pakistan. Tested on 16,000 individuals in Karachi, the video aims to increase preparedness and promote proactive measures. It will be featured at the Mayor's Conference to discuss tailored dissemination strategies via YouTube, social media, and WhatsApp. Watch below to help spread the message and save lives.​