PITTSBURGH — Allegheny County is issuing a “Code Red Heat Advisory” for several days next week.
In a press release shared on Friday, county officials said Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday will fall under that advisory.
What happens when there is a Code Red Heat Advisory?
County officials said they will follow guidelines set by the National Weather Service and the Centers for Disease Control’s HeatRisk Tool amid the high temperatures, which are estimated to exceed 90 degrees.
According to the National Weather Service, a “Code Red” creates a risk of major heat-related illnesses, saying the temperatures “affect anyone without cooling/hydration, as well as health systems and industries.”
What is Allegheny County doing during the hot weather?
The Allegheny County Department of Human Services will work with several partner agencies, including home delivery meal drivers and care management workers, to check in on older and at-risk adults.
Street teams will work to help anyone experiencing unsheltered homelessness. County officials said those teams will provide water and cooling supplies.
Where can people go to cool down?
Several cooling centers will be open in Allegheny County next week for anyone who needs a place to escape the heat.
Anyone unsure about where the cooling center closest to them is located can search for it online, here, or can call 211.
City officials announced that five cooling centers will be open in Pittsburgh starting Monday.
Click here to read more about where Pittsburgh cooling centers will be open.
Families looking to have fun while they stay cool can visit pools and spray parks which will be open from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day.
Senior centers will be open on their regular schedules. Seniors are encouraged to call the SeniorLine (412-350-5460) if they need assistance.
Anyone experiencing unsheltered homelessness is encouraged to go to Second Avenue Commons (700 Second Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219) to escape the heat. The shelter will receive people from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The county also encourages experiencing housing instability to call the Allegheny Link (1-866-730-2368).
What can I do to keep myself and others safe in the hot weather?
Residents are urged to look after one another during the high temperatures.
Some common tips to follow are to:
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
- Limit time outdoors, especially mid-day
- Never leave kids or pets in a car
- Check on your elderly neighbors or those without air conditioning
Allegheny County Emergency Services encourage anyone who experiences symptoms of heat exhaustion, including: dizziness, nausea, headache or excessive sweating to take a break and find a place to cool down. If symptoms continue, call for help.
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