PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — For the first time this year, officials in Philadelphia declared a heat health emergency on Thursday morning, in effect through Saturday.
The soaring temperatures can cause serious problems, especially for those who are vulnerable. City services have been activated to help those who may be at high risk.
The Philadelphia Corporation for Aging’s heat help line is once again up and running at (215) 765-9040 and staffed with nurses to take calls from 8:30 a.m. until midnight. Special field teams are available for home visits and homeless outreach has picked up.
Temple University Hospital’s Chair of Emergency Medicine Dr. Robert McNamara says it’s crucial to check on the people in your lives who could be having a tough time — before it’s too late.
“When we see folks dying of heat emergencies, a lot of that is somebody who’s in a hot house and nobody’s checked on them — and next thing you know they’re not responsive,” he said, “so if you have elderly relatives, you have to make sure that they’re in a cool place.”
There are 153 cooling centers and sites in the city, including libraries, recreation centers and senior centers that have the AC running, plus pools and spray grounds for people to get a soak.
Also, for as long as the heat health emergency is in place, the water department is suspending shutoffs for residents who are behind on their bills.
How extreme heat can affect the body
According to McNamara, when it comes to extreme heat, one question comes up a lot with patients.
“One concern patients have is whether medications they’re on could make them more susceptible to heat stroke,” he explained, “and the rule of thumb there is if you’re taking a medicine that makes your mouth dry, that’s gonna put you at higher risk for heat emergencies.”
He says it’s important to hydrate with water or electrolyte drinks, limit caffeine and alcohol, refrain from putting too much stress on the body and limit outdoor time.
Heat exhaustion is a concern, and McNamara says it may manifest as flu-like symptoms. People who suffer from heat exhaustion can get better with hydration and rest.
However, people suffering heat stroke may be confused and have slurred speech. In that situation, you should call 911 and get that person immediate help.