Delaware County Announces the 2021 Heat Plan
Released: June 22, 2021
The County’s Heat Plan details resources to help vulnerable residents cope with extreme heat
Summer officially began on June 20 and our region has already experienced several hot days and humidity even before the official start of the summer season.
Delaware County Council joined the County’s Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) and PECO on June 22 to announce the County’s 2021 Heat Plan.
COSA and the County Office of Adult and Family Services offer assistance to elderly and vulnerable residents throughout the summer. Several County programs are in place to help residents cope with hot weather and humidity which can cause dehydration and other health complications.
“While many of us enjoy the sunshine and the warmer weather during the summer months, the heat can be dangerous, especially for our vulnerable and older residents, and also our pets,” said Delaware County Councilwoman Christine Reuther. “We need to take precautions and be informed and also check on our vulnerable loved ones and neighbors.”
Residents are encouraged to visit the County’s website to read the 2021 Heat Plan and learn about the resources the County provides. Residents should also take precautions during heat waves and high humidity and check in with elderly and disabled family members and neighbors who are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses.
A 24-hour Emergency Heat Information Line is now active through the summer. Residents can call 610-872-1558. The information line will provide weekly heat safety tips and reminders, emergency information, and locations where people can seek relief from the heat.
Cooling fans, home checks on vulnerable residents, access to transportation, and other resources are also available to residents during extreme temperatures.
Air-conditioned senior centers typically have extended hours during a heat wave however, some senior centers and adult daycares remain closed or have limited hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Residents should check with their senior center to find updated days and hours.
Each year, COSA purchases cooling fans to distribute to residents in need. Once again, this year PECO has generously donated fans as part of PECO’s Summer Fan Distribution Program. PECO donates 500 fans each year through local organizations across southeastern Pennsylvania. This year, the fans donated to Delaware County residents were purchased from Hardware & Supply Company, a veteran-owned small business in Chester.
"At PECO, safety and affordable, reliable, service are most important for our customers and the communities we serve,” said Doug Oliver, Vice President, Government and External Affairs, PECO. “As temperatures begin to climb, it’s essential that we equip them with the resources and support they need. With our PECO Summer Fan Distribution program, we are able to keep our customers cool during these hotter months and help ensure their energy services remain affordable.”
The fans will be distributed to seniors in need. For more information, call: 610-872-1558. Residents can also call their local senior center to learn how to receive a fan.
Some Hot Weather Safety Reminders:
Stay Hydrated. People need to drink before they feel thirsty. However, if someone experiences signs of heat exhaustion, drinking water is not enough to reverse the symptoms. Individuals should seek medical help if they are experiencing heat exhaustion.
People who work outside should be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion and take precautions.
Check on elderly and disabled family members and neighbors who are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses.
Remember the safety of pets during the warmer weather and give them plenty of water.
Never leave anyone, including a pet in a car.
The full 2021 Heat Plan can be found here: https://delcopa.gov/pdf/21HeatPlan.pdf
