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Heat is one of the most dangerous kinds of weather in Philly. Some blocks get up to 30°F hotter than others, because they have less shade from trees and more heat absorbing pavement.
Slides to share: Heat
Slides to share: Heat
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What's happening?
What's happening?
Learn why this is happening, and who is most at risk. Click here for the science.
What is the City doing?
What is the City doing?
Learn what the City is doing to prepare and recover from Extreme Heat.
What can you do?
What can you do?
Ways to get ready and look out for each other.
Gathering idea
Gathering idea
Bring neighbors together to map out cooling resources in your neighborhood, check in on neighbors who struggle in the heat, and make a plan for the hottest days. You don't need to be an expert to host a gathering, just be able to gather your neighbors.
Speak up
Speak up
Find and contact your elected officials to advocate for meaningful change. A few ideas to get started below.
Find and contact your elected officials to advocate for meaningful change. A few ideas to get started below.
Learn more about "How Philly Works".
Push for more trees on your block and connect with Tree Philly to get more trees.
Advocate for cooling upgrades at your local library, rec center, or school.
Organize a block check-in plan before summer heats up.
Ask City Council to require air conditioning in rental properties.
Get help
Get help
Tap a topic to open it. Tap a link to visit the website.
Text READYPHILA to 888-777 for alerts · Call 311 for City help · Call or text 211 for bills, housing, and more.
Emergency Resources
Emergency Resources
ReadyPhiladelphia Office of Emergency Management
The City of Philadelphia’s emergency information notification system is ReadyPhiladelphia. To sign up, text ReadyPhila to 888-777 or go to the link above to select additional alerts, select preferences, and choose the language. Most alerts are available in eleven languages: English, French, Arabic, Russian, Spanish, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Swahili, and American Sign Language.ReadyPhiladelphia Office of Emergency Management
Philadelphia Cooling Centers Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management
During heat emergencies, the City opens public cooling centers across all neighborhoods. Block captains and community leaders can help alert neighbors and identify vulnerable residents who need transportation. You can also call 311 to find the closest Cooling Center. Philadelphia Cooling Centers Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management
Heatline, Home Visits & Assistance Navigation Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA)
During a declared Heat Health Emergency, the PCA Heatline connects older adults and vulnerable residents with heat safety guidance, home visits by field teams, and referrals to cooling resources. Calls can be made on behalf of a neighbor or someone you're concerned about. Call 215-765-9040Heatline, Home Visits & Assistance Navigation Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA)
Code Red Animal Care and Control Team (ACCT)
If residents see a pet outside during a Code Red, they are urged to contact Philadelphia’s Animal Care and Control Team (ACCT) at 267-385-3800 and dial 1 to speak with the dispatcher. Residents may also file a report online with all of the available information.Code Red Animal Care and Control Team (ACCT)
Code Red City of Philadelphia
Code Red is declared during very hot weather to protect people who are experiencing homelessness, Call (215) 232- 1984. If you see someone on the street who needs help.Code Red City of Philadelphia
Where to Turn Guide Project HOME
Our Where to Turn Guide is a regularly updated list of resources for people experiencing homelessness in Philadelphia. Where to Turn Guide Project HOME
PHLASK
PHLASK is an app that connects people in Philadelphia to free, life-sustaining resources. The interactive map shows users where to find food distribution sites, publicly accessible bathrooms and drinking water, and places to forage for edible plants.PHLASK
Health Information Card Philadelphia Department of Public Health
Fill out a health information card and keep it with you in your wallet, purse or other safe place. A health information card will help you keep track of: emergency contact information, communication needs, any special equipment or supplies you require, important health information, and current medications. Health Information Card Philadelphia Department of Public Health
Mental Health and Public Health Emergencies Philadelphia Department of Public Health
Emergencies can make it hard to take care of your mental health. Being prepared can help. Make a plan to make sure your basic needs and support systems are available during an emergency.Mental Health and Public Health Emergencies Philadelphia Department of Public Health
For the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988. Free online screening and resources: www.HealthyMindsPhilly.org
Housing Resources
Housing Resources
Philadelphia Neighborhood Energy Centers Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA)
The network of 16 Neighborhood Energy Centers (NECs) serves as one-stop-shops for community members to learn about utility bill assistance programs, home repair and weatherization, budget counseling, and connection to services across the city.Philadelphia Neighborhood Energy Centers Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA)
Weatherization Assistance Program Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Pennsylvania’s Weatherization Assistance Program increases energy efficiency in homes by reducing energy costs and increasing comfort while safeguarding health and safety.Weatherization Assistance Program Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development
Built to Last Program PEA
PEA is acting as an administrative backbone to allow housing programs to layer and streamline their services, and will add construction management services, additional grants and financing as needed. Built to Last seeks to restore the safety, health, affordability and comfort of existing affordable housing in a way that improves the long-term quality of Philadelphia’s housing, builds community wealth, and helps families avoid displacement and stay in their homes.Built to Last Program PEA
Renters' Rights Housing Equality Center
Philadelphia renters have the right to habitable conditions, including adequate heat. This document provides insight and templates to navigate Renter Rights issues.Renters' Rights Housing Equality Center
Adaptive Modifications Program (AMP) Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC)
The Adaptive Modifications Program (AMP) is designed to help low-income individuals with permanent physical disabilities live more independently in their homes. It provides free adaptations to a house or an apartment, allowing easier access to and mobility within the home.Adaptive Modifications Program (AMP) Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC)
Utility Assistance Resources
Utility Assistance Resources
Utility Emergency Services Fund (UESF)
Find grants to help pay home electricity bills. UESF provides financial assistance to low-income individuals and families who are facing utility terminations or who have had their utilities shut off. PECO and the Philadelphia Water Department match each dollar they provide.Utility Emergency Services Fund (UESF)
Customer Assistance Program (CAP) PECO
The Customer Assistance Program now uses a Percentage of Income Payment Plan (CAP-PIPP) to make bills affordable. Your monthly PECO bill is calculated as a fixed percentage of your total household income. You can apply by calling PECO's Community Engagement team at 1-800-494-4000 or click the link above. Customer Assistance Program (CAP) PECO
Budget Billing PECO
Budget Billing spreads costs evenly month to month. Budget Billing doesn’t reduce overall charges, but it offers a predictable monthly payment. You can unenroll at any time.Budget Billing PECO
Matching Energy Assistance Fund (MEAF) PECO
The Matching Energy Assistance Fund (MEAF) is an energy assistance program that is designed to provide support for a temporary hardship with bill payment. PECO matches every contribution dollar for dollar upon award of a MEAF grant. The program is year-round. Matching Energy Assistance Fund (MEAF) PECO
Philadelphia Neighborhood Energy Centers Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA)
The network of 16 Neighborhood Energy Centers (NECs) serves as one-stop-shops for community members to learn about utility bill assistance programs, home repair and weatherization, budget counseling, and connection to services across the city.Philadelphia Neighborhood Energy Centers Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA)
BenePhilly
BenePhilly offers free, one-on-one help to enroll Philadelphia residents in public benefit programs. These programs can help you afford some expenses, such as: Prescription drugs, Health insurance, Food, Property taxes, Heat and other utilities, Paying for college, and Disability benefits. A BenePhilly counselor can fill out public benefit applications with you and follow up on the status of your applications. Call the BenePhilly Helpline at (800) 994-5537. BenePhilly
Medical Delay + Raise Your Hand (Shutoff Exemption) Philadelphia Water Department (PWD)
Medical Delay: If you are sick and need water service for health reasons, the Water Revenue Bureau may delay the shutoff of your services for 30 days. To request a medical delay, you must call (215) 685-6300. Please provide an offical doctors note and a letter that says Having your water shut off will prevent you from getting better and that you understand that your service will be shut off at the end of the delay period if you haven’t paid your entire bill or entered into a payment agreement by then.You or your doctor should fax medical documentation to (215) 685-3777 or email it to MedicalDelay@phila.gov.Medical Delay + Raise Your Hand (Shutoff Exemption) Philadelphia Water Department (PWD)
Raise Your Hand (Shutoff Exemption): If your water service is at risk of shutoff due to unpaid balance, you can stop it if you meet certain qualifications. The City has taken steps to protect water customers through the Raise Your Hand initiative, which exempts vulnerable residents from shutoffs. If a senior (65 years or older), person with a disability or serious illness, or child (under 18 years old) lives under your roof, your water will not be shut off. Although your balance may continue to increase if you don’t pay, you will be protected from shutoff. These protections are available to anyone, including tenants. If you meet these criteria, contact us at 215-685-6300 or by email at wrbhelpdesk@phila.gov to prevent a shutoff or restore your water service.
Education + Information Resources
Education + Information Resources
Exteme Heat Guide The City of Philadelphia
This heat guide helps residents of Philadelphia understand their heat vulnerability and learn the warning signs of health impacts. It also provides resources and information to help residents prepare for and respond to heat health emergencies. Exteme Heat Guide The City of Philadelphia
Exteme Heat Portal The Department of Public Health
See for a list of summer programming and resources to help communities prepare for and stay safe during extreme heat events. This includes trusted messenger checklists, brochures like "Heat and Chronic Illness", Youth materials, fact sheets, flyers and more. Exteme Heat Portal The Department of Public Health
Family Emergency Plan OEM
Keep track of local emergency contacts, important phone numbers, medical information, and family meeting locations. Keep a copy within easy access so that you or your family members can refer to it in case an emergency happens.Family Emergency Plan OEM
READY Home, READY Business & READY Community Preparedness Workshops OEM
The Office of Emergency Management works with businesses and non-profit organizations like schools, places of worship, libraries, and community centers to prepare for any kind of emergency. Our READYBusiness and READYHome are free, hour-long, intense programs that will leave you knowing what to have in your hand, heart and home in the event of an emergency. If you’re interested in OEM visiting your neighborhood group or business, please email us at oem@phila.gov.READY Home, READY Business & READY Community Preparedness Workshops OEM
Renters' Rights Housing Equality Center
Philadelphia renters have the right to habitable conditions, including adequate heat. This document provides insight and templates to navigate Renter Rights issues.Renters' Rights Housing Equality Center
Become a tree tender PHS
Tree Tenders go on to form groups in their neighborhoods that transform the health and well-being of their communities by rallying neighbors to plant and care for trees. See how you can get involved in planting trees in your neighborhood today. Contact trees@pennhort.org or Call (215) 988-1698 Become a tree tender PHS
Disaster & Social Services Hotline PA 211
From help with a utilities bill, to housing assistance, after-school programs for kids, and more, you can dial 211 or text your zip code to 898-211 to talk with a resource specialist for free. Our specialists will listen to your needs and give you information on programs in your community that might be able to help.Disaster & Social Services Hotline PA 211
Service Link Penn Center for Public Health
Volunteers work with clients in confidential settings to secure basic living needs such as housing, physical and mental health, food, utilities and repairs, adult education, child-related, employment, financial, transportation, and legal advice. Service Link Penn Center for Public Health
NASA Climate Legacy
Climate Legacies, developed by NASA scientists, illustrate how different generations experience past and future warming during their lifetimes. Visit the site to create, download, and share your own warming stripes timeline based on your birth year. NASA Climate Legacy
Community Response Partner Network (CRPN) Newsletter
The CRPN Newsletter is issued approximately every two weeks and in response to emerging public health hazards. The newsletters have seasonal preparedness information, such as "staying cool and informed about extreme heat" and "virtaul heat safety trainings". To begin receiving these newsletters and other essential information you can share with your trusted contacts, please enroll in the Community Response Partner Network (CRPN).Community Response Partner Network (CRPN) Newsletter
Philadelphia Department of Public Health Public Health Preparedness Community Resources
Order free educational materials, request training or resource tabling, sign up for webinars or newsletters. Public health emergencies are any disaster or crisis that can harm the health of Philadelphia residents and communities. The Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH) works every day to make sure Philadelphia is prepared. Our plans involve partners at the local, state, and federal levels, and the Public Health Preparedness Program (PHP) works with community partners and service providers to keep residents informed and safe.Philadelphia Department of Public Health Public Health Preparedness Community Resources
NPR COMIC: How excessive heat kills and how to stay safe
Of all extreme weather conditions, heat is the deadliest. Human bodies have a natural cooling system — sweat — but that system can do only so much in high temperatures and humidity. But how exactly does heat kill? Here's the science behind what happens to the body in extreme temperatures, including the three main ways heat can shut down vital systems, as well as tips to stay safe, cool down and fend off heatstroke.NPR COMIC: How excessive heat kills and how to stay safe
Transportation Resources
Transportation Resources
Philadelphia Zero Fare Program City of Philadelphia
Zero Fare supports free SEPTA transit for residents living near or below the poverty level. Philadelphia Zero Fare Program City of Philadelphia
Senior Fare Program SEPTA
Philadelphia residents age 65 and older ride all SEPTA buses, subways, and trolleys for free with a SEPTA Key Senior Fare card. Senior Fare Program SEPTA
SEPTA Access SEPTA
The SEPTA Access program provides paratransit service for individuals with disabilities and senior citizens.SEPTA Access SEPTA
Tree Resources
Tree Resources
Tree Philly City of Philadelphia and Fairmount Park Conservancy
"Each spring (April to May) and fall (October to November), TreePhilly works with community groups across the city to host yard tree giveaway events. You can also request a street tree from the city. " Contact info@treephilly.org or Call (215) 683-0217Tree Philly City of Philadelphia and Fairmount Park Conservancy
PHS Tree Tenders PHS
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) Tree Tender groups plant trees along streets each spring and fall. Apply for a tree and make your block greener and healthier. PHS will work with you in handling tree permits, cutting sidewalk pits, and delivering the tree to your neighborhood. Once you have the tree, you and your neighbors will plant it and care for it.PHS Tree Tenders PHS
Street Tree Contract Management Office Philadelphia Parks & Recreation
Philadelphia Parks & Recreation prunes mature street trees. They also remove dead and hazardous street trees as well as stumps. They also take care of trees in neighborhood parks, recreation centers, and playgrounds owned by the City of Philadelphia. They do not remove living, healthy trees, and they cannot work on private property. Street Tree Contract Management Office Philadelphia Parks & Recreation
PHL Taking Care of Business The City of Philadelphia, Department of Commerce
Street Trees for Commercial Corridors. Now partnering with Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and TreePhilly to plant and care for trees along neighborhood commercial corridors. This exciting initiative brings shade, beauty, and environmental benefits to the heart of our busiest community spaces. A growing tree canopy along commercial corridors means cleaner air, cooler streets, and more welcoming spaces. Contact business@phila.gov or Call 215-683-2000PHL Taking Care of Business The City of Philadelphia, Department of Commerce
Become a tree tender PHS
Tree Tenders go on to form groups in their neighborhoods that transform the health and well-being of their communities by rallying neighbors to plant and care for trees. See how you can get involved in planting trees in your neighborhood today. Contact trees@pennhort.org or Call (215) 988-1698 Become a tree tender PHS
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