Extreme Heat Resources for Philadelphia Residents

Extreme heat can be dangerous, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, and individuals experiencing homelessness. The City of Philadelphia and nearby institutions offer a variety of programs and services to help you navigate periods of extreme heat.

We've gathered the following resources to help you stay cool and safe this summer! 👇

Heat Safety & City Response

• Philadelphia Extreme Heat Guide – Find the City’s complete guide to extreme heat safety, including preparation tips, cooling resources, and emergency information.
• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
• Limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Check on older adults, neighbors, and anyone who may need assistance.
• Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.

How Philadelphia Responds to Extreme Heat

• Heat Caution Information – The City provides public information and heat safety guidance for residents, especially people who are most vulnerable during high temperatures.
• Code Red Information – During Code Red events, the Office of Homeless Services and the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS) conduct 24-hour outreach to people experiencing homelessness. Pets are allowed in emergency shelters during Code Red events.
• Heat Health Emergency Information – Activates additional emergency services, including: Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) Heatline. Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH) Mobile Heat services. Potential reopening of utility shut-off protections.

Stay Informed

• ReadyPhila – The City’s emergency notification system provides alerts about extreme heat, severe weather, emergencies, transit alerts, and special events. Alerts are available in 11 languages.
• Community Response Partner Network – Provides urgent public health updates, educational resources, FAQs, and latest information about emerging public health hazards.
• Philadelphia 311 – Contact the City for non-emergency services, information, and assistance.
• Local Free Library Locations – Visit a neighborhood library to access information, resources, and public services.

Cooling Resources

• 2026 Cooling Sites – Find a cooling center near you, these will only be open during a Heat Health Emergency.
• Find a Pool Near You – Find nearby public swimming pools throughout Philadelphia.
• Sprayground Finder – Find nearby spraygrounds where residents can cool off.

Utility Assistance

• BenePhilly – Helps residents access benefits and find ways to afford essential costs.
• Clarifi – Provides financial counseling and helps residents manage expenses and afford essential costs.
• UESF Utility Assistance Program – Helps residents avoid utility shut-offs and provides assistance with utility bills. You can also call them at (215) 814-6837.
• LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) – Helps eligible households pay heating and energy costs.
• Customer Assistance Programs (CAPs) – Provides reduced payment options for eligible utility customers.
• Neighborhood Energy Centers – Helps residents apply for bill payment assistance, weatherize their homes, learn how to conserve water, gas, and electricity as well as receive energy counseling.
• Prevent Water Shutoffs – Learn about programs that may help prevent or postpone water shutoffs under certain circumstances.
• Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) – Provides emergency support for eligible adults over age 60, including: Utility assistance, medicine and medical supplies, food assistance and general emergency needs.

Public Health & Wellness Resources

• Find a Primary Care Provider – Find healthcare services and primary care providers.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for mental health support. Extreme heat can affect mental health and emotional well-being.
• PCA Heatline – During a Heat Health Emergency, PCA nurses provide heat safety information and guidance.
• Find a Primary Care Provider – Find healthcare services and primary care providers.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 if extreme heat is affecting mental health or emotional well-being.
• Philadelphia Extreme Heat Guide – Access the City’s complete Extreme Heat Guide.
• Public Health Preparedness Materials – Order free translated public health preparedness newsletters and emergency preparedness materials.

Stay Cool with Free or Low-Cost Arts & Cultural Attractions

• Art-Reach ACCESS Program – Provides $2 admission to more than 80 cultural sites for individuals receiving qualifying public assistance for food or medical benefits.
• The Franklin Institute – Interactive science and technology exhibits. Residents with a PA ACCESS card receive discounted admission for up to four people. Philadelphia high school students receive free admission through the STAMP program.
• Penn Museum (University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology) – Features collections exploring cultures and history from around the world. Residents with an EBT card receive free admission for themselves and up to three guests.
• Philadelphia Museum of Art – Offers art exhibitions and programs. EBT cardholders pay what they wish and children under 12 receive free admission.
• Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University – Natural history museum featuring science exhibits and collections. EBT Cardholders receive free admission for up to two adults and five children.
• National Museum of American Jewish History – Museum exploring American Jewish history and culture. EBT Cardholders receive free admission for themselves and family members.
• Mütter Museum – Medical history museum featuring exhibits on medicine and the human body. PA ACCESS cardholders receive free admission for up to four people.
• Please Touch Museum – Children's interactive museum offering hands-on learning experiences. Offers discounted admission options through ACCESS programs.
• Eastern State Penitentiary – Historic prison site offering tours and educational programming. Offers discounted admission through ACCESS programs.
• Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens – Mosaic art space featuring immersive artwork and community programming. Offers discounted admission through ACCESS programs.
• Betsy Ross House – Historical site highlighting Philadelphia history and the story of Betsy Ross. Offers discounted admission options through ACCESS programs.
• Barnes Foundation – Art Museum featuring post-impressionist and modern art collections. Offers discounted admission through ACCESS programs.

Stay Safe and Stay Connected

Extreme heat affects us all. Use these resources to stay informed, find cooling options, access support, and protect yourself and your community during periods of high temperatures. If you need immediate assistance, call 311 for City services or 988 for mental health support.