The head of the Federal Association for Homeless Assistance (BAG W), Sabine Bösing, has issued a stark warning regarding the dangers posed by extreme heat to homeless individuals across Germany. Speaking to Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Bösing emphasized that “the streets become a very serious health problem in the summer”. She highlighted the vulnerability of those experiencing homelessness, often lacking access to shade, water and safe places to retreat from the heat.
Bösing detailed the heightened risks associated with the combination of limited medical care, pre-existing health conditions, inadequate clothing and hydration and substance use. “This significantly increases the risk of severe health damage or even heatstroke” she stated.
She urged the federal government to take more proactive measures, specifically calling for the establishment of a federal heat protection fund to support initiatives within emergency housing assistance. Furthermore, Bösing advocated for a legal obligation for municipalities to develop heat protection plans that explicitly address the needs of homeless populations. She also stressed the need for binding guidelines for states and local authorities to integrate vulnerable groups into these plans.
At the municipal level, Bösing emphasized the necessity of providing free access to water, shade, showers and cool refuge areas. She also called for year-round operation of emergency shelters equipped to mitigate the effects of heat. “We need a social climate policy that leaves no one behind – and that includes more housing, more care and more protection” Bösing concluded.