Philadelphia declares heat emergency for Monday, Tuesday

Philadelphia officials will institute a heat health emergency from Monday at noon through Tuesday at 8 p.m. due to forecasted high temperatures.

Residents are encouraged to check on older neighbors, who can be vulnerable to heat-related illness.

People can call the Philadelphia Corporation for the Aging’s “Heatline” (215-765-9040) to speak to nurses about signs of heat stress.

Those without air conditioning are advised to visit friends or relatives who have air conditioning, if possible.

In addition, the following library branches will be open until 7 p.m. as cooling centers: Lucien E. Blackwell Regional, Joseph E. Coleman Regional, Blanche A. Nixon Cobbs Creek, Fox Chase, Frankford, Fumo Family, Haddington, Lillian Marrero, Logan, Oak Lane and Widener.

Air-conditioned SEPTA buses will be parked at Germantown and Allegheny avenues; Wyoming and Rising Sun avenues; Broad Street and Snyder Avenue; and 70th Street and Woodland Avenue between noon and 7 p.m. Monday and 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Tuesday.

The early warning signs of heat stress are decreased energy, slight loss of appetite, faintness, lightheadedness and nausea. People experiencing these symptoms should go to a cool environment, drink fluids, remove excess clothing, and rest. If there is no improvement, call a doctor or 911.

Call 911 immediately for serious signs of heat stress, including unconsciousness, rapid heartbeat, throbbing headache, dry skin, chest pain, mental confusion, irritability, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, staggering, and difficulty breathing.