Important heat safety information for the public
It will be really hot beginning Tuesday, 18 June through the rest of the week and the weekend. It’s important to check on your neighbors, especially older adults, anyone living alone and people with chronic health conditions who are more likely to get sick. Make sure they have access to air conditioning, are staying hydrated, and know how to call for help if they need it. Nighttime temperatures will also be warm, increasing the risk of heat-related illness.
Stay cool:
- Stay in air-conditioning at home or in a cool public space. Visit www.art-reach.org or call 267-515-6720 for free or discounted indoor activities.
- The hottest part of the day is from about 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Try to stay out of the sun and avoid strenuous activities, if possible.
- Stay hydrated. Drink water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- If you are hot and don’t feel well, call a doctor. Call 911 if you think someone is having an emergency.
These resources may also be helpful when it’s very hot out:
- Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Helpline (215-765-9040): Residents can call to get health and safety tips and be connected to resources.
- Utility Emergency Services Fund (215-814-6845): Utility and housing assistance and more. Residents can call to learn about and enroll in state and federal benefits.
- The Office of Homeless Services: If you see someone on the street who needs help, call 215-232-1984 or 911.
Other resources:
- Philadelphia Extreme Heat Guide: www.phila.gov/heat
- Extreme heat brochures, flyers, and newsletters: https://bit.ly/PHPGuidance
- Free, translated into many common languages, and can be printed and mailed to your address.
Reach out to publichealthpreparedness@phila.gov with any questions, requests for presentations about staying safe in extreme heat, an information table at your next event, or additional resources.
