The Philadelphia Health Department has declared a heat health emergency from today, Thursday, June 11 through Friday, June 12. A heat emergency is called when This kind of declaration is made when temperatures and humidity reach levels that can put vulnerable people, like those with chronic illness or the elderly, at high risk for medical emergencies. Meaning, people who are vulnerable and alone need our help.

Here are some ways to assist during a heat emergency.

Know where the cooling centers and pools are

Philadelphia has over 60 free pools open to cool you off during hot days. Find a list here.

Or find a cooling center, like a handful of Free Library locations, like the South Philadelphia Library, Parkway Central Library, Logan Library and Walnut West. The Parks Department also offers cooling centers at East Passyunk Rec Center, Barry Playground, and the South Philadelphia Older Adult Center. Prevention Point and Sunshine House, in Kensington, join the list of Philadelphia cooling centers open for anyone to utilize for free.

Know who to call and what to look for

The city has a Heatline at (215) 765-9040, open from 8 a.m. through 8 p.m., which was created to route possible emergencies based on the heat. With the case of relatives and neighbors, have their doctors numbers handy, especially if they have a chronic ailment that is exacerbated by heat.

The warning signs of heat exhaustion are confusion, heavy sweating, dizziness and nausea. Keeping an eye on neighbors and relatives ensures that you get ahead of these emergencies.

Utility non-payments are paused during a heat emergency

Your air conditioner will not be shut off during the heat emergency because overdue payments are suspended during that time.

Mutual aid groups will be handing out water

Several mutual aid groups in Philly, like Food Not Bombs, put together bottle brigades to hand out water during the heat emergency. If you are able and can donate ice packs or help purchase water in bulk, or can just help them out, check here for more information on mutual aid services during the heat emergency.