Extreme heat endangers human health, the economy, national security, and more. In a commentary published by The New York Times, Ashley Ward (director of the Heat Policy Innovation Hub) examines the risks posed by heat--and how to build resilience. 

During extreme heat events, people should prioritize creating a cool space in their bedroom because sleeping in stifling temperatures comes with “some of the worst health outcomes from heat,” Ashley Ward, director of the Heat Policy Innovation Hub, explained to Homes.com. Ward and other experts offer tips for controlling your shade, water and space.

"When temperatures reach certain levels outside, the only way to be safe is to seek out air conditioning,” Ashley Ward, director of the Heat Policy Innovation Hub told National Geographic. If you’re not in an air-conditioned space, Ward recommends making a heat action plan.

With much of the U.S. facing an extreme heat event, Duke Today highlights guidance from Ashley Ward, director of the Heat Policy Innovation Hub at the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability. 

Overnight temperatures that don’t drop below 75 degrees can be a particularly dangerous part of a heat wave, Ashley Ward, director of the Duke University Heat Policy Innovation Hub, told The Associated Press. Ward recommends finding air conditioning—whether at home or in public places—to help prepare your body to tackle the next day.

As much of the United States prepares for a heat wave, Ashley Ward, director of the Duke University Heat Policy Innovation Hub, spoke with PBS NewsHour about the dangers of extreme heat and key tips for dealing with it.

As summer kicks off, scorching days and sweltering nights pose health risks, including increased mortality, emergency room visits, and premature births. Ashley Ward, director of Duke's Heat Policy Innovation Hub, shared simple methods to stay cooler and healthier—like taking cool showers, staying hydrated, and sleeping in cool rooms—with Scientific American.

How can we protect lives and livelihoods in times of extreme heat? Duke Magazine highlights how the Heat Policy Innovation Hub at the Nicholas Institute is helping decisionmakers advance data-based solutions tailored to community needs. 

The National Weather Service has warned people under extreme heat warnings in three Western U.S. states to avoid consuming alcohol or caffeinated drinks as they can accelerate dehydration. "When it's dangerously hot, the safest bet is to stick with water or electrolyte beverages, take breaks in the shade or AC, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day," Ashley Ward, director of the Heat Policy Innovation Hub, told Newsweek.

At a March 27 gathering in Goodson Chapel, faith leaders and organizers came together to discuss initiatives being employed by houses of worship as they become hubs of climate resilience, writes the Duke Research Blog. The conversation was part of Duke University's Cooling Communities project, which is advancing community-driven solutions to extreme heat.