Vision For Equality

This week, Governor Shapiro has established a new commission to enhance protections for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, Philadelphia is currently under a Code Red Air Quality Alert due to smoke from wildfires. Residents are urged to take necessary precautions. We also encourage nominations for the upcoming Points of Transformation Awards, recognizing those who support individuals with intellectual disabilities. Your voice matters—participate in the Disability Rights Pennsylvania survey to shape future advocacy efforts.

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Today, July 15, 2026, a Code Red is in effect for the City of Philadelphia.

Please check on neighbors, elderly and disabled family members.

Code Red
During very hot weather, the City can declare a Code Red to protect people who are homeless.

For people who are homeless:

Call the outreach team at (215) 232-1984 if you see someone on the street who needs help.
Call 911 if there’s a medical emergency.

Extreme heat guide:

https://www.phila.gov/guides/extreme-heat-guide/

Cooling centers:

https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/8d7b658a9fca4a78bac2c385d117a031

Pools and spray grounds:

https://www.phila.gov/parks-rec-finder/ #/locations

Heat brochure : English
https://www.phila.gov/media/20230519145509/heat-brochure-20220804-EN.pdf

Heat brochure: Spanish
https://www.phila.gov/media/20230519145501/heat-brochure-20220804-SP.pdf

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health has declared a Heat Caution for Wednesday, 7/15, through Thursday, 7/16. During extreme heat, it’s important to check on your neighbors, especially older adults, people with chronic health conditions who are more likely to get sick, and anyone who lives alone. Make sure they have access to air conditioning, are staying hydrated, and know how to call for help if they need it.

Stay Cool

Stay in air conditioning at home or in a cool public space.
Find the hours of a Free Library location near you.
For free or discounted indoor activities, visit www.art-reach.org or call (267) 515-6720.
The hottest part of the day is from about 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; try to stay out of the sun and avoid strenuous activities, if possible.
Stay hydrated. Drink water or fruit juice even if you don’t feel thirsty.
If you are hot and don’t feel well, call a doctor. Call 911 if you think someone is having an emergency.

Stay Connected

Contact the Public Health Preparedness Program to schedule an in-person or virtual workshop about staying safe during extreme heat.
Email: [email protected].
You can get printed copies of heat flyers and brochures mailed to your organization. We are also happy to discuss ideas about how we can help your community stay safe from extreme heat this summer.