For the third consecutive day, Philadelphia is under a Heat Health Emergency.
On Tuesday, Health Commissioner Thomas Farley made the announcement that the city’s current heat emergency would be extended through Wednesday at 8 p.m. Officials encourage Philadelphians to check on elderly loved ones and neighbors during this time and also to take advantage of special precautions made available to ensure everyone’s safety during the excessive heat.
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging Heatline
Philadelphia residents can call the heatline for health and safety tips and to talk to medical professionals regarding medical conditions that could become more dangerous from the heat. Residents can reach the heatline at 215-765-9040 between 8:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 22.
Cooling Sites
People looking for relief from the heat can visit various libraries, schools and buses during the city’s Heat Health Emergency. Masks are mandatory at these locations and social distancing is required. The sites are listed below:
— Libraries (Open between 1 and 5 p.m. through July 22.)
- Haddington Library, 446 North 65th Street
- Lillian Marrero Library, 601 West Lehigh Avenue
- Logan Library, 1333 Wagner Avenue
— Schools (Open between 1 and 5 p.m. through July 22.)
- West Philadelphia High School, 49th and Chestnut streets
- Kensington High School for Creative and Performing Arts, 1901 North Front Street
— SEPTA Cooling Buses (Open between 1 and 5 p.m. through July 22.)
- Germantown and Allegheny avenues
- Wyoming and Rising Sun avenues
- Belgrade and Allegheny avenues
- 52nd Street and Larchwood Avenue
- N. 29th and W. York streets
- Broad Street and Snyder Avenue (This is a Philadelphia Fire Department bus.)
Parks and Recreation Spraygrounds
Spraygrounds are located at more than 90 Parks and Recreation locations and are open to the public. Hours are weekdays from 3 to 7 p.m. and weekends from noon to 5 p.m. A complete list of sprayground locations is available online.
The Department of Public Health encourages residents to use air-conditioners when possible, drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, stay out of the sun and be aware of early signs of heat exhaustion, including loss of energy, dizziness and nausea. Health officials urge people to call 911 immediately if they experience chest pain, vomiting or difficulty breathing.
For more information about the Philadelphia’s Heat Health Emergency, visit the city’s website.
