Lifestyle
Heat season safety: how to stay cool and spot heat illness in Sint Maarten
Practical heat-season advice from the Fire Department, ODM and Collective Prevention Services: water, shade, clothing, vehicles, pets, workers and when to call 911.
By SXM Daily ·
The Caribbean heat season runs roughly from May through October, peaking in August–September. The Meteorological Department of St. Maarten says the most intense heat comes in August and September. This guide brings together the advice the government has issued.
Drink before you're thirsty
The Fire Department and the Office of Disaster Management (ODM) advise drinking water before you feel thirsty. Collective Prevention Services (CPS) recommends at least 2 litres a day and limiting sugary and alcoholic drinks.
Avoid the hottest hours
According to the Fire Department and ODM:
- stay out of the sun in the hottest hours of the day
- wear light, loose, light-coloured clothing and a hat, and use sunscreen
- rest in the shade or in air conditioning
- cut back on strenuous activity
- follow weather advisories
CPS recommends sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher.
Never leave anyone in a parked car
The Fire Department and ODM warn never to leave children, older adults, people with disabilities or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a short time.
Know when it's an emergency
According to the Fire Department and ODM, confusion, unconsciousness or a very high body temperature is a medical emergency. Call 911 for medical help. For a fire, call 919.
For the full list of emergency numbers on both sides of the island, see our emergency numbers guide.
Outdoor workers
The Fire Department and ODM ask employers to give outdoor workers water, shade and rest breaks.
Pets
Pets need water and shade too. Keep them off hot asphalt, the Fire Department and ODM advise.
Sources
- https://www.sintmaartengov.org/news/Pages/press-release.aspx?slug=fire-dept-urges-community-to-take-precautions-during-peak-of-caribbean-heat-season-september
- https://www.sintmaartengov.org/news/pages/Meteorological-Department-St-Maarten-MDS-2026-Atlantic-Hurricane-Season.aspx
- https://www.sintmaartengov.org/news/Pages/CPS-Stay-cool-and-hydrated-during-Caribbean-Heat-Season.aspx