What happens when the City declares a Heat Health Emergency

Sarah Reyes Board of Health, Department of Public Health, Office of the Mayor, Office of Emergency Management

During very hot weather, the City will declare a Heat Health Emergency. When we declare a Heat Health Emergency, we activate several City services to ensure our residents stay safe.
During a Heat Health Emergency it’s important to check on loved ones, neighbors, and pets and look out for each other. When daytime temperatures reach the 90s or triple digits and are accompanied by high humidity for two or more days, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can happen. If you think someone is having a medical emergency, call 911.
Remember, during hot weather, NEVER leave children and pets unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Car interiors can reach lethal temperatures very quickly; It takes only two minutes for a car to reach unsafe temperatures.
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When a Heat Health Emergency is declared:

1. The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s Heatline—a special helpline number—is open for calls. Call the hotline at (215) 765-9040.
2. Cooling sites are available to the public.Remember, swimming in Philadelphia’s rivers, streams, and waterways is very dangerous and not allowed. Cool off safely at a sprayground instead.
3. The Office of Homeless Services increases their outreach. Call (215) 232-1984. Call 911 if there is a medical emergency.
4. Additional pet safety measures are enforced by Philadelphia’s Animal Care & Control Team. Owners can face a $500 fine (and can put their pets in grave danger) if they don’t follow ACCT Philly’s requirements.

To report a dog left outdoors in very hot weather, call (267) 385-3800.

More details here.