Philadelphia Heatline activated as heat warnings issued

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- As an Excessive Heat Warning goes into effect again for the tri-state area, the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is activating its Heatline.

The Heatline will be in operation during the following hours:

-Thursday, Aug. 11 from noon to midnight

-Friday, Aug. 12 from 8:30 a.m. to midnight

-Saturday, August 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The number to call is 215-765-9040.

The PCA describes the activation of its Heatline as follows:

At PCA's Heatline call center, a team of trained staff will counsel callers of all ages about precautions to take against the heat and detecting signs of heat stress. City Health Department nurses will be on-site to speak with callers about medical problems related to the heat. Mobile relief teams from the Health Department will respond to situations requiring intervention, and 911 will be called for emergencies.

Neighbors, friends and relatives are urged to look in on elderly persons, as they may be especially vulnerable to the heat. The elderly, individuals with chronic medical conditions, those on medication, and persons who live alone and receive few visitors are encouraged to call PCA's Heatline for advice on coping with the heat. In addition, callers may contact PCA's Heatline on behalf of another individual who may be at risk for heat stress.

PCA's Heatline is a non-emergency telephone service - IT IS NOT A FAN OR AIR CONDITIONER DISTRIBUTION SITE. PCA's Heatline staff can provide information about recommended air-conditioned locations and year-round senior services.