NCT07500545 · Public Health Institute, California
Community Health Adaptation & Resilience Mobilization (CHARM) HeatWise
(CHARM)
What this study is about
Extreme heat events pose serious health risks, especially for communities with limited access to cooling, transportation, or social support. This study pilots and tests HEATwise, a heat preparedness program delivered at trusted community centers in Lake County, California, serving older adults, Tribal members, and people experiencing housing or economic hardship.
View original scientific description
Extreme heat events pose serious health risks, especially for communities with limited access to cooling, transportation, or social support. This study pilots and tests HEATwise, a heat preparedness program delivered at trusted community centers in Lake County, California, serving older adults, Tribal members, and people experiencing housing or economic hardship. HEATwise is a 12-week program which includes a group workshop on heat risks and preparedness, one-on-one resource navigation, a community celebration event, and a cooling and emergency supply kit. The pilot phase (2026) will assess feasibility and acceptability at three sites with approximately 60 participants. The full trial (2027-2028) will randomly assign eight sites to receive HEATwise immediately or after a delay, measuring whether the program increases protective behaviors, reduces heat-related symptoms, and strengthens resilience over 12 months.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
CHARM HeatWise
HEATWise consists of structured, facilitator-led training sessions on extreme heat preparedness and response, distribution of heat resilience kits, and community engagement activities designed to promote protective behaviors. The intervention is delivered at the cluster (site) level in community-based settings and focuses on reducing risk of heat-related illness and improving individual and community resilience.
Primary outcome measures
Change in Symptoms
Time frame: 3-months post-intervention
Change in self-reported heat-illness symptoms: "Self-reported heat stress measure". Range 0-8, with higher scores indicating higher heat stress
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Eligible participants are adults (≥18 years) who have resided in Lake County for at least 6 months, are able to access a phone for study communications, and are willing to provide a valid secondary contact for the duration of the study.
Exclusion criteria
- Participants must also be a recognized member or affiliate of a articipating site, referred by the site, or reside within 5 miles of the site. Individuals are excluded if another household member is already enrolled in the study, if they cannot provide a secondary or emergency contact, are unable to independently complete study activities, or plan to be away for 15 or more consecutive days during the intervention period.
Where
- Lakeport, California
Collaborators
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations