SunSafe: The Impact of Heat Wave on Public Health

Technical Team

1. Luis Cervantes:- MA in Quantum Physics.
2. Yixin Lin:- Phd in Bioinformatics.
3. Avantika Dhanabal:- B.eng in Software Technology, with skills as a Developer.

Business and Marketing Team

1. Kevin Underwood:- BA Marketing with International Business, with background experiences as a Marketing Executive.
2. Yuka Kumakura:- MA in Journalism, over 15 years in Journalism.
3. Elahe Ranjbar: MA Intercultural Studies, MSc Psychology, with current experience Mentoring people for needed competencies and skills for integration.

In 2022 alone, more than 61,000 people across Europe died from extreme heat—more than from any other natural phenomenon. Heatwaves and high temperatures pose significant risks, particularly for urban populations, older adults, and individuals with chronic health conditions. These events also place a serious burden on healthcare systems, especially during periods of increased hospital admissions due to heat-related illnesses.

To help prevent heat-related sickness and deaths, this project proposes the development of a mobile app that leverages satellite data from the Copernicus programme and real-time geolocation from Galileo. The app will deliver high-temperature warnings based on users’ real-time locations.

In addition to basic alerts, we propose several advanced features to enhance the app’s impact:

1. Personalized Risk Guidance:
    If users consent to share basic health information (e.g., age or chronic conditions), the app can provide tailored precautionary advice based on individual vulnerability.
2. Community Support Network:
    The app will include a volunteer-matching feature, connecting local community members with vulnerable individuals—such as elderly residents—who may need check-ins or assistance during heatwaves.
3. Data for Policy & Public Health Planning:
    Aggregated, anonymized data collected through the app can support both local and national governments in developing evidence-based climate-health policies. It can also aid hospitals and public health institutions in resource planning.
4. Future Integration with Smart Home Systems:
    Looking ahead, the app could include a feature to remotely activate home air conditioning systems for registered elderly users. This is especially important for those who may not perceive temperature accurately or avoid using cooling systems due to cost or habit.

This project aims to bridge environmental monitoring, personal health protection, and community action—to build climate resilience and save lives.