Heatwave puts extra strain on homeless people in Lower Austria

Homeless people are particularly exposed to the sun during the heatwave, ORF reports. Day centres such as the Emmaus community in St. Pölten offer a cool place to retreat, as well as drinks and showers.

Even in the shade, temperatures remain high during hot days. For people living on the streets, securing enough water is only one of the challenges. “Many have chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes or addiction disorders,” said Dominic Visovsky, a support worker at the Emmaus day centre for homeless people.

Visovsky said homelessness already brought constant challenges, which were intensified by the heat. “Many tablets work differently in the heat,” he said. This can affect people’s health and cause their circulation to collapse.

Day centres offer refuge

Some people seek relief in the Traisen or at public lakes in St. Pölten, Visovsky said. Many others go to day centres such as the Emmaus community, where people living on the streets can spend time in a cool environment.

The centres provide free water and other drinks, as well as the opportunity to take a cold shower. They can also provide fresh clothing, including light garments.

“If this place did not exist, it would not be good. If you have to walk around all day in this heat, you are exhausted. We are glad that we can come in here,” one visitor said.

Call emergency services if someone is in danger

Anyone who believes a homeless person may need help should speak to them directly, Visovsky said. “Some may not want help, so you should simply ask what the person needs.”

Emmaus said Lower Austria does not have a comparable help hotline to the service available in Vienna. If someone is unresponsive or in acute danger, people should call the emergency services.