The German Association of Cities and Municipalities (DStGB) is calling for improved heat protection measures for hospitals and nursing homes in light of recent heatwaves.
Ralph Spiegler, the president of DStGB, told the “Rheinische Post” that hospitals require air conditioning, not only for patients but also for the staff working there. He emphasized that this represents a massive investment requirement, estimated at a minimum of 20 billion euros. Spiegler stressed that the current heatwaves have clearly demonstrated the need for hospitals, as well as elderly and care facilities, to be better prepared for such events.
He further stated that special attention must be paid to the situation in nursing homes and elderly care facilities. These locations must account for climatic changes and be furnished in a climate-appropriate manner for the residents.
The German Weather Service is currently forecasting a new, though comparatively short, heatwave for Thursday and Friday.
