Governor Stein Declares Heat Safety Week Amid Rising Temperatures in North Carolina
Governor Stein has announced the commencement of Heat Safety Week in North Carolina as the state enters its hottest period of the year. This initiative highlights the dangers of extreme heat, which is the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States, surpassing hurricanes and other natural disasters. Last year, over 5,700 individuals in North Carolina sought emergency medical care due to heat-related illnesses. Governor Stein emphasized the efforts of state agencies and local governments to ensure public safety during this period. Despite these efforts, heat safety advocates argue that more measures are needed to protect vulnerable populations, such as implementing mandatory water breaks and enhancing worker protections for farm laborers. In Charlotte, the lack of mandatory air conditioning in rental units and the high cost of running air conditioning units pose additional challenges for residents. 
