As southeast Michigan braces for sweltering heat, law enforcement and domestic violence experts are warning that rising temperatures can bring more than just physical discomfort.
Retired Detroit Assistant police Chief Steve Dolunt said it’s a dangerous trend he sees every year: when temperatures climb, so do tempers — and violence.
“I’m concerned, especially with the fireworks coming up,” Dolunt said. “You’ve got firearms, alcohol, and longer days. When it’s 16 below out, no one’s outside.”
In just one week, Monroe County has been rocked by two presumed murder-suicides.
In Detroit, a man shot his girlfriend, then turned the gun on himself just three days ago.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, intimate partner violence increases by 12% during summer months compared to other seasons.
Officials also report summer spikes in violent crimes (excluding robberies), aggravated assaults, property crimes, and thefts.
“When you’re outside, there’s more chance for road rage, people are drinking, and not everyone has air conditioning — especially in marginalized communities,” Dolunt said. “Just take a breath and walk away. And come back. Then talk.”
Audriana Buchanan-Cronk, Director of Operations and Engagement with First Step domestic and sexual violence services, confirms the summer surge in calls for help.
While school’s out, there’s often a rise in juvenile delinquency and disruptions in childcare, too.
“The combination of environmental stress, school breaks, financial strain, and housing instability can create a perfect storm for violence to escalate,” she said.
Buchanan-Cronk said survivors often face unimaginable decisions, like staying in an abusive home or risking homelessness during a heat wave.
“Survivors are incredibly resilient, but they shouldn’t have to go it alone,” she said. “The best thing you can do is believe them, validate their experiences, and offer help where possible.”
She stresses that while heat doesn’t cause abuse, it can intensify existing patterns of control and aggression.
“Abuse is always a choice,” she said. “Heat doesn’t excuse harm, but it can make an already volatile situation more dangerous.”
First Step urges anyone experiencing or witnessing intimate partner violence to reach out, whether or not the person involved is ready to leave.
“You don’t have to leave to get help,” Buchanan-Cronk emphasized. “Whether you want to stay, leave, or just talk through options, our advocates are here to support whatever decision feels safest for you.”
The organization offers 24/7 help, emergency shelter, legal support, free counseling, and safety planning. During the summer, those plans can include:
• Identifying cool public spaces like libraries or malls to escape unsafe situations
• Practicing exit strategies with children (if safe)
• Keeping a go-bag with essentials like cash, IDs, medications, and chargers
• Using code words to alert trusted people when help is needed
• Avoiding high-risk areas like kitchens or bathrooms during arguments
• Keeping a car’s gas tank full
“Intimate partner violence doesn’t take the summer off—and neither do we,” Buchanan-Cronk said. “We want people to know: you are not alone.”
If you or someone you know needs help, First Step’s helpline is available 24/7.
24-Hour Helpline: (734) 722-6800
First Step: https://www.firststep-mi.org
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