What to know for Philly’s latest heat emergency
Temperatures are expected to break 100 degrees.
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health declared another heat health crisis yesterday, Aug. 8, as temperatures will hit dangerous levels for two days straight for the majority of the day.
In some parts of the county, temperatures will break 100 degrees.
According to a spokesperson from the PDPH, heat response points are defined using historical and local heat-related morbidity and mortality data.
As a response to potential outreach concerns, PDPH established a heat health helpline, where citizens may call to seek care information.
Citizens can reach the Heatline at 215-765-9040.
“During a heat health emergency, the Health Department staffs PCA's Helpline with nurses who can speak to residents about potential medical issues,” said James Kyle, spokesperson for the PDPH told Al DÍA NEWS.
“If needed, the Health Department can also dispatch a nurse and sanitarian to a person's home using this service to assess the home environment and provide care.”
For residents whose English is not their first language, PDPH provides expanded informative materials and documentation to reach Philly’s whole community. The service is available in over 12 languages.
“PDPH has developed informational materials, some of which are translated into 12 languages, and distributes them via tabling and door-to-door residential and business corridor canvassing,” Kyle said.
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The state body also provides any necessary orientation and guidance to navigate unprecedented levels of heat.
“We hold virtual and in-person trainings to talk to residents about the signs of heat-related illness, tips and resources to stay safe, how to apply for utility assistance, and how to check on vulnerable neighbors,” he said.
CBS Philly organized a list of cooling centers readily available for residents.
The city has issued a series of heat advisories since the beginning of summer, prompting concerns for health officials.
Experts say periodic high temperatures are lethal to folks with underlying illnesses and the city’s most vulnerable population, such as the elderly and homeless. However, healthy folks are also at risk of deterioration if proper safety precautions are ignored.
Last month, PDPH recorded five heat-related deaths for individuals with underlying health conditions.
According to 6abc, July heat peaked as the hottest day on record in 10 years.
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