The Philadelphia Department of Public Health announced a Heat Health Emergency at noon Sunday, encouraging residents to check on their neighbors and family members. (Credit: @phlpublichealth)
Temperatures are expected to reach 100 degrees this week, prompting the city to declare a Heat Health Emergency in Philadelphia until 8 p.m. Wednesday, or longer if the forecast worsens.
Declared at noon on Sunday, a Heat Health Emergency is put into effect when the expected heat index, a measure of how hot the air feels, meets thresholds that track when people go to the hospital for heat-related symptoms.
The announcement triggers the city’s emergency heat programs, including the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Heatline, cooling centers, extended daytime outreach for people experiencing homelessness and suspended Philadelphia Water Department shutoffs.
James Garrow, a spokesperson for the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, said the city uses data linking heat index levels to spikes in heat-related illness and death. The threshold for declaring a Heat Health Emergency varies throughout the summer, starting lower in early months and increasing as residents acclimate.
"I know everybody understands that it's hot out and it's miserable to be outside," Garrow said. "But this is more than just it's miserable. It is dangerous and potentially deadly, which is why the city has kicked in a number of heat response services."
According to the World Health Organization, heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths. Heat vulnerability depends on psychological factors, such as age and health factors, along with exposure factors, including occupation and socio-economic conditions.
While everyone should take precautions in extreme heat, Garrow said those at higher risk include older adults, people with chronic conditions, pregnant women, young children, outdoor workers, people using drugs or alcohol and those on medications that affect body temperature regulation.
PhillyDaily.com has outlined heat safety measures for Philadelphia residents, especially those at higher risk during the heat wave.
People without air conditioning are advised to seek relief from the heat through neighbors or relatives who have air conditioning or by visiting cooling centers around the city.
Cooling centers consist of several libraries, rec centers and Philadelphia Housing Authority community centers, which will extend their hours this week. Centers can be found using this map or by calling 311.
“We also encourage folks to who have air conditioning and maybe are dealing with the heat a little better, to check on neighbors, loved ones, friends and family who may not have air conditioning," Garrow said. “Make sure that they're doing okay. Make sure they're drinking water all for them to stop by if you can, or take them to a cooling center just to help take the edge off.’
The PCA Heatline, 215-765-9040, will also be available from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday. The hours and days of operation may be extended if the Heat Health Emergency continues.
For elderly community members, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation’s older adult centers will provide air conditioning from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation’s spraygrounds and pools are another option to avoid the heat and spend some time outdoors. Pools will be offering free swim during open hours for the duration of the Heat Health Emergency.
According to the World Health Organization, heat stress occurs when the body is unable to regulate its internal temperature, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The body puts strain on the heart and kidneys as it tries to cool itself.
This is why extreme heat poses greater health risks for people with chronic conditions and can cause acute kidney injury.
To help people prepare and stay safe before temperatures climb, several organizations offer safety guidance.
The American Red Cross created a list of things to do before extreme heat occurs, including staying hydrated, gathering emergency supplies and staying connected with the community.
The average person needs around three-fourths of a gallon of water daily, though this varies. Monitoring your hydration levels, along with avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks, can help prevent heat illnesses.
Organizing emergency supplies, such as food, water and medicine, can also prevent disastrous situations, especially if stores close during a heat emergency or storm.
Electric fans are not sufficient during heat emergencies and staying in air conditioning during the hottest parts of the day will be more effective at preventing heat illnesses.
Creating a plan in advance is a great way to ensure everyone’s safety.
Other safety tips include:
Early signs of heat stress include low energy, faintness, nausea, and loss of appetite. If symptoms appear, move to a cool place, drink fluids, remove extra clothing and rest.
Call 911 if symptoms worsen. City hospitals are prepared to treat heat-related illness.
Severe symptoms—such as unconsciousness, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, confusion, vomiting, or difficulty breathing—require immediate medical attention. Call 911 right away.
The emergency announcement coincides with a Code Red event, declared by the city’s Office of Homeless Services when the heat index is forecast to be above 95 degrees for three consecutive days. The event activates special measures to keep people experiencing homelessness safe.
Unlike a Heat Health Emergency, the threshold for a Code Red does not change over the course of the summer.
If you see someone in need of shelter or other services, the outreach team can be reached at (215) 232-1984. If it’s a medical emergency, call 911.
A Code Red event also affects pets. All dogs must have access to shade, shielding them from the sun. Owners who do not provide shade could face fines starting at $500.
Call the Animal Care & Control Team at (267) 385-3800 to report a dog left outside in extreme heat.
Other safety information can be found at the city’s Heat Health Emergency blog post and Extreme Heat Guide.
